Man in police net for vandalising transformer in Calabar
Police in Cross River State have arrested a 36-year-old man named Peter over allegations of vandalizing an electricity transformer in Calabar.
The suspect sustained burn injuries following a loud explosion from the transformer that disrupted electricity supply to the area early Monday morning. Residents reported hearing the explosion at approximately 2:21 a.m. and alerted authorities around 10:15 a.m. on October 12, 2026.
According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, officers from B Division in Calabar responded to the report, found the injured suspect, and initially took him to the police station before transporting him to a hospital for medical treatment.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect identified individuals to whom he sold stolen items and admitted to previous acts of transformer vandalism in the area. Authorities are working to clarify the details surrounding the incident, assess the scope of the alleged criminal activity, and identify any additional individuals involved.
Cross River State Commissioner of Police CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue emphasized that vandalism and theft of electrical infrastructure pose serious threats to public safety and disrupt essential services. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities near transformers, electricity cables, and other public utility installations to the nearest police station rather than confronting potential offenders.
The police announced that investigations are ongoing, underscoring that the suspect is entitled to the presumption of innocence under the law.
