Man Lost his Life After Alleged Attempt to Tap Electricity From Utility Pole in Manila
A man reportedly attempting to tap electricity illegally died after falling from a utility pole in Tondo, Manila.
A 30-year-old man lost his life after reportedly being electrocuted while climbing a utility pole in Isla Puting Bato, Barangay 20, Tondo, Manila. The incident occurred around 11 PM on Tuesday (December 17, 2024).
According to an initial investigation by the Manila Police District, the man climbed the pole, possibly intending to tap into the electrical lines illegally. Authorities suspect he came into contact with a live wire while carrying out his plan.
“Naisipan nitong kumonek kung ano man yung gagawin niya sa ano, hinihinala po natin na siya ay mayroong balak na magjumper o magnakaw ng kuryente. Nagulat na lang itong mga tao sa lugar na bigla siyang bumagsak at nag-spark parang pumutok at nalaglag siya sa poste,” MPD Homicide Chief Pcapt. Dennis Turla said.
Witnesses were shocked when they saw sparks and heard a loud noise before the man fell from the pole.
The police believe the man intended to set up an illegal connection, commonly referred to as “jumping” electricity. Following the incident, he was immediately rushed to the hospital.
The man sustained severe burns on his chest, as well as injuries to his legs and head. Unfortunately, the man did not survive and was declared dead on arrival.
The electric company Meralco reiterated that such actions are not only life-threatening but also illegal. Unauthorized connections expose individuals to potential accidents like electrocution or falling from dangerous heights.
“Huwag po nating gawin ‘yan kasi either mahuli tayo ng alagad ng batas o masaktan tayo o mahulog tayo kung mataas yang tina-tap-an natin,” Meralco spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said.
The company urges residents to avoid tampering with electricity and to follow legal processes for acquiring power connections.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the man’s actions.
In a similar report, a fearless man in electrical post illegally tapping jumpers caught on camera
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident.
