The Eastland Electricity Distribution Limited has raised concerns over meter bypass and other forms of energy theft across communities in Ebonyi.

The company disclosed that it uncovered over 300 confirmed cases during monitoring and enforcement operations in the first quarter of 2026, according to a statement on Friday.

It explained that the company’s technical and commercial teams identified the cases following intensified inspections across the state.

The statement noted that the inspections were part of efforts to protect electricity infrastructure and improve service delivery.

“EEDL strongly condemns meter bypass and energy theft. The practice is illegal, dangerous, and detrimental to a sustainable electricity supply.

“Meter bypass and energy theft are criminal acts that sabotage the power sector, damage critical infrastructure, and deprive honest customers of quality power supply.

“Electricity facilities are shared community assets, and when individuals tamper with meters or steal energy, entire communities suffer outages and equipment failures,” she said.

It noted that energy theft contributed significantly to transformer overload, frequent power interruptions, increased operational costs, and safety hazards, including fire outbreaks and electrocution.

The firm condemned reported incidents where some customers allegedly attacked or obstructed EEDL field personnel during inspection activities.

It restated that EEDL remained committed to supporting economic growth and development in Ebonyi through improved energy distribution and network enhancement.

“EEDL has come to partner with the people and government of Ebonyi state to drive development through reliable electricity supply. However, no electricity business can survive or sustain improvement efforts if energy theft continues unabated. Responsible energy use is essential for progress,” said the firm.

The company disclosed that it issued penalty charges to customers found culpable in line with existing electricity regulations.

“Further enforcement measures, including disconnection and possible prosecution, may be applied where necessary,” it said.

The firm announced that monitoring and surveillance operations had been intensified across the state and advised customers currently involved in meter bypass or unauthorised connections to desist from such acts.

The company appealed to residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support efforts to combat energy theft by reporting suspicious electricity activity in their communities.

EEDL reaffirmed its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and efficient electricity services while protecting the interests of law-abiding customers across the state.

(NAN)