In Aba, Abia State, two individuals have been arrested on allegations of energy theft as part of ongoing efforts to address electricity fraud in the region.
In a statement on Thursday, Aba Power's Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Blessing Ogbe, expressed profound disappointment in both individuals for their roles in defrauding the company.
They were apprehended for stealing meters and electricity from APL Electric Company (Aba Power). The suspects, currently facing prosecution and awaiting sentencing, were arrested during an ongoing operation, with several accomplices still at large.
The arrests occurred on Orji Street, off Umule Road, in Aba, Abia State. Among those detained was Mr. Isak Adamu, an electrician alleged to have orchestrated numerous instances of meter tampering.
Mr. Ude James, another individual arrested for energy theft, confessed during questioning that he had been paying Adamu 7,000 naira monthly to manipulate his meter, resulting in inaccurate readings of his energy consumption.
Investigations have indicated that Mr. Adamu is connected to a wider network of corrupt clients benefiting from his services, and he is cooperating with authorities to identify and prosecute others involved.
According to Engr. Ogbe "We will enhance the monitoring of prepaid meters to eliminate energy theft and safeguard our revenue. Legal action will be promptly initiated against offenders, in accordance with the 2023 Electricity Act."
He urged the public to join the fight against energy theft and assist the company in identifying those involved, highlighting that such illegal actions negatively impact both the company and its customers.
Engr. Ogbe also praised the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the World Bank Police Station in Abayi Aba, for their role in the investigation and successful arrests.
This crackdown follows recent remarks by Mrs. Agatha Nnaji, Group Managing Director of Geometric Power Group, who expressed concern over the rising incidents of energy theft and vandalism during a customer service week event on October 8.
She assured customers that improvements in power supply are on the way, as the company has made significant strides in addressing the gas supply issues that have affected turbine operations and reliable power delivery to the Aba Ring Fence area.
"Aba Power remains committed to protecting its assets and ensuring uninterrupted service to the community", She mentioned.
She stated that the company is intensifying its efforts to tackle energy theft across its entire network.
