The Gombe State command of the [Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)](https://www.nscdc.gov.ng) arrested 22‑year‑old Abdulrahman Ali on Friday after he allegedly damaged an armored electricity cable that supplies power to the [Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)](https://www.nnpcgroup.com) depot in Gombe.
**What was the alleged crime?**
Ali, a resident of Tudun Wada Pantami in Gombe, is accused of collaborating with an unidentified accomplice to vandalise the cable along Bauchi Road at approximately 3 a.m. on 16 October 2026. The pair reportedly cut the cable, sold the stolen material for about N100,000 and used the proceeds for personal needs.
**How was the suspect apprehended?**
According to State Commandant Mohammed Inuwa Usman, intelligence gathered by the NSCDC’s Department of Intelligence and Investigation led officers to intercept Ali as he attempted to flee the state. During questioning, Ali admitted his involvement and appealed for leniency, blaming his personal circumstances for the offence.
**What other incidents did the command report?**
The anti‑vandalism unit, working alongside the Lubo Community Security Committee, recovered 968.4 metres of vandalised aluminium power‑transmission cable along the Lubo‑Zambuk axis in Yamaltu‑Deba Local Government Area. The abandoned cables were left by vandals who fled when officers arrived at about 12:12 a.m. on 12 October. The command also disclosed the arrest of 21‑year‑old Idris Mohammed for the alleged killing of Usman Jibrin Isah in Kwami Gari, Kwami LGA, an incident that occurred on 12 September after a minor dispute escalated, resulting in Isah being stabbed with scissors.
**What did the commandant say about the investigations?**
Usman affirmed that investigations into both the cable‑vandalism case and the homicide are ongoing. He promised that the suspects will be charged before a competent court once the inquiries are completed, adding, "Our corps remains steadfast in protecting critical national assets, infrastructure, lives and property across the state."
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to curbing vandalism and other criminal activities that threaten Nigeria’s essential services.