Youth Damages 50 Transformers in Kasaragod After Power Disconnection

Kasaragod: A youth has been arrested in Kasaragod for allegedly damaging the fuses of over 50 electricity transformers, causing a power outage for more than 8,000 consumers, including commercial establishments. The incident, which took place in Kudlu Churi Kalyankode, was reportedly an act of revenge after the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) disconnected his household’s power supply due to an unpaid bill.

The outstanding electricity bill for the youth’s residence for the previous month was Rs 22,000, with November 12 marked as the final payment date. KSEB officials from the Nellikkunnu electricity section office reported receiving a death threat via a phone message on November 13, following their call regarding the overdue payment. Consequently, on the morning of November 14, KSEB employees proceeded to disconnect the service line from the pole at his house.

Later that evening, the youth, accompanied by a child, reportedly confronted and threatened KSEB employees. Subsequently, he visited the KSEB office and settled the outstanding bill. However, it was during his return journey from the office that he allegedly carried out the act of vandalism, systematically removing and breaking fuses from numerous transformers across the town.

KSEB began receiving a flurry of calls reporting power outages from various areas after the youth had departed. A subsequent investigation revealed that more than 200 fuses from over 50 transformers had been either removed or broken. The damage extended beyond the Nellikkunnu section, affecting transformers in Thalangara, which falls under the Kasaragod section’s jurisdiction. Locals reportedly witnessed the youth damaging the fuses, leading to arguments.

Following a formal complaint lodged by KSEB with the Town Police, the accused youth was apprehended and taken into custody.