Mob sets suspected transformer vandal ablaze in Calabar (video)

A suspected cable and transformer vandal was lynched by an angry mob in Calabar, Cross River State.

The incident occurred around 5:00 am on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 on Mayne Avenue in Calabar South Local Government Area, according to eyewitness accounts.

According to residents, the suspect was apprehended by a local vigilante group, while his accomplices reportedly fled the scene.

The neighbourhood, including Mayne Avenue, Palm Street and surrounding areas, has suffered repeated power outages blamed on persistent transformer vandalisation.

An eyewitness, Amos Akpan, said residents recently contributed money to replace stolen components from a transformer, only for another part to be removed again this week.

Akpan accused vandals of deliberately targeting electricity infrastructure, describing their activities as the direct cause of prolonged blackouts in the area.

He alleged that the deceased was part of a syndicate specialised in cable theft and transformer vandalisation within the neighbourhood.

Police operatives later arrived at the scene and evacuated the remains of the deceased.

The spokesperson for the State Police Command, SP Eitiokpa Sunday Akata, confirmed the incident.

The PPRO added that the command would provide further details in due course.