….Recovers Stolen N52 Million Transformer
By Omolara Akintoye
The Rivers State Police Command has announced the arrest of six suspects involved in a high-profile transformer theft syndicate following a coordinated intelligence operation.
The suspects were apprehended in connection with the vandalism and theft of a 1,000KVA transformer valued at Fifty-Two Million Naira (₦52,000,000.00) from the NNPCL Estate in Rumuokwurushi, Port Harcourt, on January 3, 2025.
According to a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the suspects were arrested after a petition was filed regarding the activities of hoodlums targeting public assets and local security guards. The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 AM, when the suspects tied up and robbed security guards on duty before stealing the transformer.
The arrested suspects include:
1. **Raphael Ngwuebor**, 52, from Umezeoka Community, Ebonyi State – an accomplice of the syndicate’s sponsor.
2. **Christopher Nwagwu**, 50, from Aboh Mbaise LGA, Imo State – the end receiver of the stolen transformer.
3. **Chimene Wagoha**, 35, from Ikwerre, Rivers State – who assisted in transporting the transformer.
4. **Chikodi Ogu**, 38, from Omuma LGA, Rivers State – who helped remove the transformer from the estate.
5. **Obinna Nwankwo**, 43, from Omuma LGA, Rivers State – the mediator who negotiated the sale of the transformer for ₦10.5 million.
6. **John Aguarar**, 36, from Etche LGA, Rivers State – the alleged sponsor of the operation, who provided the Hiab truck used to transport the transformer.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being part of a larger syndicate specializing in vandalizing and stealing transformers and electrical installations across Rivers State. The stolen transformer was recovered from the suspects and is currently in police custody as evidence.
SP Iringe-Koko stated that investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend other members of the syndicate. She reiterated the Command’s commitment to tackling criminal activities and protecting public infrastructure in the state.
This arrest highlights the growing concern over the vandalism of critical public assets, which has significant implications for power supply and community development in the region. The Rivers State Police Command has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.
