The Kaduna State Police Command, Rigasa Division, has arrested a police officer who was caught on video assaulting and attempting to stab a staff member of Kaduna Electric, one of Nigeria’s power distribution companies,Energy News Africa reports.
The officer, identified as Inspector Aminu Yahaya Bidda from the Tudun Wada Police Station in Kaduna Metropolis, was seen in the video with a knife strapped to his side, assaulting and repeatedly attempting to stab officials of the electricity distribution company.
In response, Kaduna Electric issued a statement confirming that they had formally petitioned the police command, requesting an investigation and that the officer be charged with assault, attempted murder, harassment, and intimidation of their staff.
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The company has also called for the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for a thorough investigation. Additionally, Kaduna Electric urged the police commissioner to intervene and ensure the protection of their employees, allowing them to carry out their lawful duties without interference.
The statement, signed by Abdulazeez Abdullahi, the Head of Corporate Communications at Kaduna Electric, emphasized that the officer’s actions were not only illegal but also posed a dangerous precedent and a threat to the fragile peace in the state.
“The actions of this police officer are in direct violation of the law and the Police Code of Conduct,” the statement read. “We will be petitioning the relevant police authorities for appropriate administrative actions and subsequent prosecution.”
According to Kaduna Electric, the incident occurred when their staff visited Inspector Bidda’s residence on Rimaye Road, Hayin Danmani, for a routine inspection of his pre-paid meter. The company revealed that their records showed the customer had only paid for electricity twice this year, raising suspicions of meter bypass.
Eyewitnesses reported that the situation escalated when the officer, visibly agitated, brandished a knife and attempted to stab the electricity worker multiple times. Fortunately, the staff member managed to escape unharmed. However, a passerby who tried to intervene suffered a leg injury.
This violent incident has sparked discussions about the safety of utility workers and the difficulties they face while enforcing regulations.
