Maldives Police Service is investigating an attempted theft of a STELCO transformer in Hulhumalé Phase 2, during which an employee was assaulted while trying to prevent the crime.

The suspect was taken into custody on Tuesday night. He is identified as Ibrahim Zalif, 37, of Chanbeylige, Shaviyani atoll Bilehfahi.

The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m when STELCO employees intervened to stop the theft of a transformer installed on Reethigas Magu. One employee was attacked during the confrontation and sustained minor injuries. He was treated at the hospital and has since been reported to be in stable condition.

The attempted theft disrupted the power supply to MPL towers due to damage to the transformer. STELCO teams acted promptly to address the issue and restore power to the affected areas.

On his official X account, STELCO's Managing Director Hussain Fahmy strongly condemned the attack, describing it as dangerous and unacceptable. He praised the courage of the employee and emphasised the company's commitment to addressing such risks as a serious concern.

This incident comes shortly after deliberate vandalism of two high-voltage transformers in Hulhumalé Phase 2 last Saturday, which caused significant power outages in the area.