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A damaged electricity transformer. (Photo/STELCO)

Man with repeat offences remanded for theft from STELCO transformer

Records presented at the hearing show the suspect has been arrested multiple times in the past for attempting to steal electrical cables.

4 July 2025
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The Criminal Court on Thursday remanded a 29-year-old man for 15 days following his arrest in connection with an attempt to steal components from a State Electric Company (STELCO) transformer located in the courtyard of Dharubaaruge.

The man, who has a history of similar offences since 2021, was taken into custody after he was reportedly seen cutting an electricity cable connected to the transformer.

According to the court order, when confronted, he attempted to flee but was stopped by police with assistance from members of the public. At the time of arrest, he was found in possession of a cutter and a wrench.

The court noted that the suspect stated he was at the location at the request of a friend, although the incident report indicated he acted alone.

Records presented at the hearing show the suspect has been arrested multiple times in the past for attempting to steal electrical cables. Previous arrests were made in June 2021, July 2023, January 2024, October 2024, and May this year.

At the hearing, the accused requested leniency, citing cooperation with the police during the investigation. However, Judge Safwath Habeeb ordered a 15-day remand, citing public safety concerns, the suspect’s repeated involvement in similar cases, and indications that the individual may have been involved in organising such activities.

The authorities have highlighted the dangers of theft involving electrical infrastructure. Previous incidents involving attempted theft from STELCO equipment have resulted in fatalities due to electric shock and prolonged power outages in affected areas.

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