The Western Regional Office of the National Security has uncovered a significant stash of suspected stolen electrical materials at Kansawurodo, a suburb in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. The discovery, based on actionable intelligence, was made in a concealed location, including an uncompleted building believed to be connected to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The recovered items include 46 cable drums, electrical switches, meter boxes, meter cases, iron angle bars, and other components crucial to the power distribution infrastructure. These materials are suspected to be part of missing supplies from the ECG, raising serious concerns about theft and mismanagement.
Arrests and Investigations
Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the find and are currently assisting with investigations. Among them, Evans Lartey, who identified himself as a certified ECG contractor, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He claimed his role in the supply chain was legitimate, stating that he regularly supplies meters and cables to the ECG under contract.
National Security’s Perspective
Hashim Torkonu, a national security operative who led the operation, described the circumstances surrounding the discovery as suspicious. Speaking on the matter on Monday, April 7, he highlighted that the storage method and location suggest potential misappropriation of ECG property.
“This stash is entirely different from the materials we uncovered earlier at a private residence,” Torkonu revealed. “In that case, the suspect identified himself as a contractor, but inconsistencies in his explanation have raised further doubts. For this new case, no one has come forward to claim ownership of the items. Residents in the area also appear unaware of the origins of these goods.”
Torkonu added that the Regional Security Coordinator would escalate the matter to the National Security Headquarters in Accra for further directives.
Community Reaction and Concerns
Local residents expressed shock at the discovery, noting that the uncompleted building had drawn little attention. When questioned, they could not identify anyone responsible for the storage or transport of the materials.
Broader Implications
The discovery underscores the growing challenge of safeguarding critical infrastructure materials amidst rising reports of theft and corruption. The Electricity Company of Ghana has been battling significant losses due to vandalism and theft, often affecting power distribution and service delivery.
Authorities have intensified efforts to trace the source of the materials, assess their connection to other missing ECG supplies, and determine whether the theft involves an organized network.
As investigations continue, the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stronger security measures and oversight within utility companies to protect public resources.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
