ESCOM’s distribution line stripped naked of its transformer
* Worrisome increase in the theft of sophisticated ESCOM components, including transformers, copper wire and conductor lines
* An alarming trend that has led to power disruptions, compromising public safety and diminishing the quality of service provided to consumers
By Nyandema Mhango, MANA
Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has called on people in the country to join forces in the fight against the rampant vandalism of electricity infrastructure, which has become a significant challenge for the company’s operations.
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Recent reports indicate a worrisome increase in the theft of sophisticated ESCOM components, including transformers, copper wire and conductor lines — an alarming trend that has led to power disruptions, compromising public safety and diminishing the quality of service provided to consumers.
ESCOM’s chief public relations & communications officer, Pilirani Phiri expressed concern that despite numerous awareness campaigns, incidents of vandalism continue to escalate across various regions of the country.
“We have been holding awareness campaigns, but vandalism persists, often leaving communities in darkness for extended periods. We urge the public to assist us by reporting any suspicious activities to the police,” he said.
ESCOM’s social media channels have recently been awash with pictures of vandalised infrastructure, including a case in Phalombe where ill-minded individuals destroyed ESCOM components, resulting in severe blackouts in areas such as Mwanga, Milepa and Chitseka.
Additionally, a 50KVA transformer at Sunrise Private Clinic in Mpingu was vandalised on June 18, further worsening the situation.
Deputy national public relations officer for Malawi Police Service, Harry Namwaza, assured that the law enforcement agency is actively collaborating with ESCOM to apprehend those responsible for these crimes.
“Anyone found in possession of ESCOM components will face legal consequences,” he warned. “We adhere strictly to the penal code and the law will take its course against offenders.”
Meanwhile, ESCOM has urged the community to remain vigilant and cooperative in safeguarding essential infrastructure for the benefit of all Malawians.
Just on Tuesday, Airtel Malawi Plc issued a statement pledging to reward any credible leads that can help identify perpetrators of vandalism of its fibre cable infrastructure to bring them to justice as the vice continues to disrupt the country’s leading mobile phone, internet and mobile money service provider on monthly basis.
The statement depicted an image of a local fibre cable line that had been dug up and cut away by unscrupulous vandals that led to internet network disruption: “This is not an isolated incident,” said Airtel in the statement.
“We suffer multiple fibre cuts every month and what’s alarming is that these deliberate attacks are happening mostly on Airtel’s network.
“These acts are not just attacks on Airtel, they are attacks on all of us — on students trying to study online; on families staying connected; on business trying to grow; and on customers trying to live their digital lives.
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“We are actively working with authorities to track down those responsible but we cannot fight this battle alone,” says Airtel while pledging to duly reward those who identify perpetrators of this sad development.
“Let’s stand together to protect the lifeline that connects us all,” implores Airtel. “It’s your network, your Airtel, your Faya — let’s keeping it burning, let’s keep it safe.”—Additional reporting by Duncan Mlanjira, Maravi Express
