The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested a suspected serial cable vandal, Aminu Umar, for allegedly stealing aluminium conductor wires belonging to the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company.
In a statement released on Monday, June 23, 2025, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmad Rufai, disclosed that Umar was apprehended on June 20 around 7:00 a.m. at Ummaruma Achida area while in possession of two rolls of stolen aluminium wires.
“The suspect, a resident of Gidan Igwai area of Sokoto, confessed during preliminary investigation that he was paid ₦5,000 by one Usman Yahaya of Makera Asada to deliver the stolen cables,” Rufai stated.
Police investigations revealed that Yahaya is a repeat offender who has previously faced prosecution for similar acts, suggesting a coordinated effort behind the recurring vandalism.
“Evidence strongly points to an organised criminal network targeting critical infrastructure in the state,” the PPRO added.
Both suspects are expected to be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.
Reacting to the development, the Sokoto State Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on economic sabotage and vandalism of public utilities.
“The protection of vital infrastructure is non-negotiable,” the commissioner said.
“We urge residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency. Public cooperation is key to defeating these criminal networks.”
The police assured residents that efforts are underway to dismantle all syndicates threatening electricity distribution and other essential services in the state.
