Suspected Thief Apprehended at Sun FM 91.9 Radio station Aba Over Attempted Cable Vandalism (VIDEO)

A suspected cable thief has been apprehended at the premises of Sun FM 91.9 Aba after he was allegedly caught attempting to remove wiring from the station’s transmission mast.

The incident occurred when a member of the station’s technical team, Chima Okoro, reportedly noticed the suspect on the transmission mast and immediately alerted other staff members. Acting swiftly, security personnel and employees intercepted the suspect before he could leave the premises with the cables.

The suspect identified himself as Chukwudi Henry Ogbonna, who claimed to be from Okoko Item in Abia State and described himself as an electrical technician. During questioning, he allegedly told staff that he had been sent by the station’s General Manager, Pastor Charles Emmanuel Ogbonna, to remove electrical wiring, including earthing (grounding) cables that had recently been installed.

However, station officials rejected the claim, maintaining that no such authorization had been given.

The cables targeted were part of a newly installed grounding system put in place following a devastating lightning strike that recently destroyed critical broadcasting equipment at the station, including a newly installed solar power system reportedly valued at more than ₦70 million.

Management of Sun FM 91.9 Aba commended the vigilance of its technical team, security personnel and other staff members whose prompt intervention prevented the suspected vandal from making away with the equipment.

The station also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities around critical infrastructure to the appropriate authorities.

The suspect has since been handed over to a security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The incident underscores the growing threat posed by cable theft and vandalism across Nigeria, where broadcast stations, telecommunications facilities and other public infrastructure have increasingly become targets because of the resale value of copper and other electrical components.

Industry experts warn that the theft of earthing and grounding cables is particularly dangerous, as these systems play a vital role in protecting sensitive electronic equipment from lightning strikes and electrical surges. Their removal leaves critical facilities vulnerable to extensive damage and service disruptions.

The case also highlights the importance of community vigilance and collaboration with security agencies in protecting essential infrastructure, especially as incidents of vandalism continue to rise across the country.

Video below