Two people have been arrested in Aba, Abia State for alleged energy theft.
They were arrested for metre and energy theft from APL electric company (Aba Power).
The suspects now in prosecution and awaiting final sentencing by the court, were apprehended as part of an ongoing operation, while several others remain at large.
The company continues to intensify efforts to stamp out energy theft across its network.
The arrest took place at Orji Street, off Umule Road, Aba, Abia State.
Among those arrested was Mr Isak Adamu, an electrician accused of orchestrating multiple cases of metre tampering.
Mr Ude James, another individual arrested for energy theft confessed during interrogation that he had been paying Adamu seven thousand naira (7000) monthly to manipulate his metre, preventing accurate reading of his energy consumption.
Investigations have revealed that Mr. Adamu is allegedly linked to a broader network of corrupt clients benefiting from the services and he is cooperating with the authorities to identify and prosecute those engaged in his services.
In a statement on Thursday, Aba power’s Chief operating officer, Engr. Blessing Ogbe, expressed deep disappointment in both the technician and the customer for their role in defrauding the company.
“We will implement stricter monitoring of prepaid metres to ensure energy theft is eradicated and revenue is protected.
“Legal action will be taken swiftly against offenders, in line with the 2023 Electricity Act, “Engr Ogbe stated.
He further urged the public to stand against energy theft and assist the company in identifying those involved, emphasising that such illegal activities harm both the company and its customers.
Engr Ogbe also commended men and officers of the Nigeria police force, world Bank police station Abayi Aba for their involvement in the investigation and successful arrest.
This crackdown follows recent comments by the group Managing Director of Geometric Power Group, Mrs Agatha Nnaji who during a customer service week event on October 8, decried the increasing rates of energy theft and vandalism.
She assured customers that improved power supply is forthcoming, as the company had made significant progress in resolving the gas supply challenges that have impeded turbine operation and the delivery of reliable power to the Aba Ring fence area.
Aba Power remains resolute in its efforts to protect its assets and ensure uninterrupted service to its environs.