Troops Arrest Six Suspected Vandals, Recover Stolen Electric Transformer In Sokoto

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

SABON-BIRNI, Nigeria – Troops operating in the Tsamaye area of Sabon-Birni Local Government Area, Sokoto State, have arrested six suspected vandals and recovered a stolen electric transformer, the military confirmed. The operation took place on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, following intelligence reports of criminal activities targeting critical public infrastructure in the remote border community.

The suspects were apprehended while attempting to dismantle and transport the transformer, which had been disconnected from a facility serving several villages in the Tsamaye axis. Security sources said the group specialised in vandalising power installations and selling components to scrap dealers across the state border. Items recovered included the transformer, vandalised cables and tools used for the illegal operation.

The Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement on the operation, but a military source confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing preliminary interrogation. The troops have intensified patrols along the Sabon-Birni corridor to prevent further attacks on electricity infrastructure and to disrupt criminal networks that exploit the area’s rugged terrain.

Vandalism of power equipment has been a persistent challenge in Sokoto State, where rural communities frequently suffer prolonged blackouts due to destroyed transformers. The recovery of the stolen transformer is seen as a significant win for security forces, who have stepped up operations ahead of the rainy season, when repairs become more difficult.

Commendation is extended to the troops for their vigilance and swift action in protecting critical public infrastructure. The Nigerian military has urged citizens to continue providing useful information to security agencies to help combat economic sabotage and infrastructure vandalism across the country.

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