The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has cautioned the public against the proliferation of counterfeit energy metres within its service areas.

This alert follows the recent seizure of over 200 sub-standard metres by the Ghana Police Service during a routine inspection.

The counterfeit metres were intercepted on the Kenyase-Atronie road in the Sunyani Metropolis and are suspected of having been smuggled into Ghana from neighbouring countries such as Togo and Côte d’Ivoire.

These metres were captured at a checkpoint, raising serious concerns about safety and legality.

NEDCo has strongly advised the public against purchasing these unverified meters due to the significant risks they present.

“The metres have not been tested or calibrated to meet the standards set by regulatory bodies such as the Energy Commission and the Ghana Standards Authority,” the company warned.

The use of these sub-standard metres could result in hazardous fire outbreaks, damage to transformers, and extended power outages.

In a statement, NEDCo emphasised the legal implications of dealing with these counterfeit metres.

“Accordingly, NEDCo will take all necessary legal actions against individuals and/or organisations engaged in the distribution (sale, purchase, and transportation inclusive) of these fake metres,” the statement said.

The company has also announced the launch of a special operation to identify and apprehend those involved in the sale and distribution of these counterfeit metres.

“A special surprise operation will be rolled out soon to detect and arrest perpetrators and beneficiaries of the distribution of these fake metres,” the statement revealed.

NEDCo therefore urged customers who currently have these counterfeit metres to return them to the nearest NEDCo office to avoid legal consequences.

“All those who have acquired these metres are advised to take them to the nearest NEDCo office to avoid arrests and prosecution. There may be no further notice on this exercise,” the statement added.