LIBENERGY has raised alarm over a surge in theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure in Harper City, Maryland County.
LIBENERGY warned that the “illegal acts’ have put public safety at risk, and undermined efforts to provide stable electricity to residents.
The company said, it has recorded a troubling increase in the cutting and stealing of transformers earthing and neutral cables in several parts of the city.
Management described the perpetrators as “unscrupulous individuals” whose actions jeopardized the integrity of the power network.
LIBENERGY said, while some may see the theft as a way to sell scrap metal, the consequences are severe.
LIBENERGY added: “Grounding cables protect systems, and the public by safely directing excess current into the ground, while neutral cables balance electrical loads and maintain stable voltage. Without them, transformers are exposed to malfunction, overheating, explosions, fires, and electrocution hazards.”
Residents have meanwhile, reported temporary outages linked to damaged transformers and connections.
“These are not ordinary cables, they are essential safety components that protect both the electrical system and the public,” the company stated. Officials added that replacing stolen cables forces LIBENERGY to divert resources from expansion and improvement in the projects, delaying service delivery and development.
The matter has been reported to the Liberia National Police, but investigations are reportedly underway.
LIBENERGY said, those found guilty could face prosecution under laws covering theft, destruction of public property, and actions that endanger public safety.
The company has called on community leaders, neighborhood watch teams to protect transformers and report suspicious activity around electrical installations.
“Electricity infrastructure belongs to the public and serves the public. When these facilities are damaged or vandalized, everyone suffers the consequences,” LIBENERGY stated.
It urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and utility staff to safeguard public assets.