Six killed as high tension cables electrocute eight persons in Jos

Six persons were killed after a faulty power line of the Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) emitted sparks in the Kabong community of Plateau state.

Speaking on Saturday during a visit to the location, Istifanus John, sole administrator of Jos North LG, said eight persons were electrocuted but six persons died, while two others were hospitalised.

John said the incident occurred at about 3am on Saturday, adding that the victims were electrocuted in their various homes.

He described the incident as “unfortunate”, saying the state recorded other losses as a result of the spark.

He urged JED to work on repairing all faults that may have prompted the spark.

“This is pathetic because it is an avoidable situation,” NAN quoted John as saying.

“Those that lost their lives didn’t go anywhere to look for trouble; they died in their homes.

“As a government, we are pained by this development.

“We call on JED to ensure that all faulty power sources are fixed to avoid this monumental loss in the future.”

Solomon Odidi, spokesperson of the traders association in the community, said the spark razed seven shops in the area.

Odidi said the incident happened because the JED only restores power at night.

He said the Plateau Fire Service arrived at the location swiftly to reduce the number of casualties.

He called on the government to support the families of persons who died and those who lost their properties to the electric spark.