TCN Guard Nabs 24-Year-Old Allegedly Stripping Cables At Benin 330kV Switchyard

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Benin Sub-Region, has apprehended a 24-year-old suspected vandal caught tampering with a marshalling kiosk in its 330kV switchyard. The suspect, identified as Wisdom Amaunam of Erediauwa Community, was arrested at about 10 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, by a security officer on patrol. This was contained in a statement issued by TCN Management on November 5, 2026.

According to TCN, the security officer caught the suspect while he was allegedly tampering with the marshalling kiosk and removing cables and wires from the facility. The suspect was subsequently handed over to the Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for investigation. He remains in custody pending the conclusion of investigations and possible arraignment.

TCN commended its security personnel and the NSCDC for their vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding critical power infrastructure. The company said deliberate attacks on transmission installations remain a leading driver of grid instability and widespread power outages across the country, threatening the stability and reliability of electricity supply to homes and businesses.

TCN reiterated its zero tolerance for vandalism, trespassing and sabotage, and urged host communities and the general public to promptly report suspicious activities around transmission installations to security agencies or the nearest TCN office. The company said it will continue to work with security agencies to protect the nation’s electricity transmission infrastructure.