A yet-to-be-identified man suspected to be a vandal was electrocuted on Thursday while allegedly attempting to tamper with a power transformer along Ehi Road in Aba, Abia State.

According to eyewitnesses, the man’s lifeless body was found next to the transformer, with tools like a jackknife and pliers beside him — suggesting he may have been trying to steal key components when he was struck by electricity.

Residents of the area expressed mixed reactions. While some blamed the incident on the rising cases of vandalism targeting power installations in the city, others called for a full investigation to determine the true circumstances behind the man’s death.

Confirming the incident on Friday, the Abia State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the matter was first reported by one Okorie Agu of 132 Ehi Road, who came to the station with two others.

Police officers visited the scene, and Aba Power Ltd was contacted to safely disconnect power before the body was evacuated to St. Anthony Hospital Mortuary.

DSP Chinaka noted that investigations are ongoing to establish the man's identity and the exact events that led to his death.

Authorities are urging residents to stay away from electrical installations and report suspicious activity to prevent such tragic incidents.