Seven transformers stolen during repairs

No fewer than seven transformers, which allegedly belonged to the Nigeria Electricity Management Service Agency, have been stolen from a workshop in the Ijora area of Lagos State.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the transformers, which ranged from 300 to 500 KVAs, were kept in the workshop for auction.  They were stolen on April 3 and April 7, 2016.

Three transformers were said to have been stolen from the workshop on April 3, while four were stolen four days later.

The theft was said to have been reported at the Iponri Police Division, leading to the arrest of an official of the agency.

Our correspondent learnt that the police had recovered some of the transformers, which had been sold, while efforts were on to recover others.

Speaking with PUNCH Metro, a source in NEMSA, who did not want his name in print, alleged that security officials in the workshop were behind the theft.

He said, “An official of NEMSA also connived with the security company guarding the workshop to steal the seven transformers. One of the culprits lives in one of the official quarters and operates from there.

“An official of an electricity distribution company was also arrested. Five persons were arrested in all, while others are at large. The police are on their trail.”

The Lagos State Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Damasus Ozoani, confirmed the theft, saying the police had charged the officials to court.

He said, “The case was reported by an official to the police. The transformers had developed faults and were taken for repairs when they were allegedly stolen by someone in the workshop. The police have recovered pieces of the transformers, but not all. Meanwhile, the suspects arrested have been charged to court.”

When contacted on the telephone, an official of NEMSA, who did not give his name, said he would verify the allegation and get back to our correspondent with a full report.

He said, “I have not been briefed about this. Hold on and let me get across to the security company. Then, I will give you the full details. I cannnot verify that claim for now.”