Man’s electrocution while fishing sparks concerns over power theft

The death of 33-year-old Satheesh, who was electrocuted while fishing in a stream at Chittilanchery near Nenmara on Saturday evening, has once again raised concerns over the continued misuse of stolen electricity for dangerous activities such as illegal fishing and wild boar trapping.

Satheesh, a native of Vandazhi, had gone fishing with friends Vijeesh and Viswanath when the incident occurred. Police have arrested both men in connection with the case. According to the police, the group had illegally tapped an overhead power line and run a live wire into the canal to catch fish. Satheesh was electrocuted after accidentally stepping into the water where the live wire had been placed.

The incident has shocked local residents and revived memories of similar tragedies linked to illegal power use. In recent years, dozens of people have reportedly lost their lives due to electrocution caused by unauthorised electric lines set up for fishing or animal trapping.

Despite occasional fatal accidents, the use of stolen electricity to trap wild boars continues in many parts of the State. While some farmers resort to illegal electric fencing to protect crops, organised groups are also involved in capturing wild boars for meat using live wires.

In a similar incident a few months ago at Vaniyambalam, a 65-year-old woman suffered severe burns after accidentally touching a live wire allegedly set up by her son to trap wild boars. Police said the man was part of a group engaged in the illegal sale of wild boar meat, and added that such networks operate in several areas.

According to the police, these activities often persist because local residents are hesitant to report offenders or testify against them.