The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has confiscated more than 300 electricity meters from residents in Tamale following a targeted operation against illegal power usage.
The early morning exercise, conducted between 5:30am and 6:30am, focused on the Kalpohin and Kukuo communities, where widespread cases of meter tampering and unauthorized connections were uncovered.
NEDCo’s Corporate Communications Manager, Maxwell Kotoka, described the findings as deeply concerning, revealing that over 300 individuals were caught engaging in electricity theft within just two communities. He noted that the company currently loses about 46 percent of its power to illegal activities, with the Tamale Metropolis among the most affected areas.
Kotoka further explained that the destruction of smart meters during such practices is worsening the situation, as the company must replace damaged units instead of extending services to new customers. He stressed that these losses are hampering efforts to improve electricity infrastructure, despite recent investments.
To address supply challenges, NEDCo has installed seven new transformers in Tamale and expanded distribution capacity to areas including Kpandai, Kete Krachi, and Bimbilla. However, officials warn that ongoing illegal connections could undermine these improvements.
The company has cautioned that offenders will face legal action and urged residents to support efforts to maintain a reliable and sustainable power supply by avoiding electricity theft.
Source: 3news
