Vincent Ujumadu
03 April 2012, Sweetcrude, AWKA — TRAGEDY struck, Monday, at Umugama, Umuchu in Aguata local government area of Anambra State when a middle-aged man was electrocuted while allegedly trying to steal armoured cables from one of the electric transformers located in the community.
The man, whose identity was still unknown at press time, was found pinned to the transformer by passers-by who raised alarm.
Community leaders had to contact the PHCN zonal office at Ekwulobia who arrived the scene immediately and removed the body to a mortuary.
It was gathered that the vandal seized the opportunity of lack of power supply at night to try to remove the cables and that, while he was in the act, power was restored and he was electrocuted.
A large leather bag with various types of instruments was found near the transformer.
Officials of PHCN who were seen at the scene of the incident, declined comment as they were busy trying to repair the damaged transformer.
Though the community has a vigilante outfit patrolling the area, the operators, who spoke to newsmen, said they never imagined that somebody could be bold enough to go into the transformer to vandalise it, despite the awareness created by the community leaders on the dangers of stealing PHCN cables.
Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Emeka Chukwuemeka, confirmed the incident and said investigation into the matter had commenced.
