The convicts Bize Tsabola and Yamikani Mlolo
* As it welcomes 10-year prison sentence each on two individuals caught for vandalising ESCOM property
* See something, say something — let’s defeat vandalism together. Report by calling ESCOM via 2020 or 3030
By Duncan Mlanjira
Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has welcomed the stiff 10-year imprisonment with hard labour slapped on two individuals, caught in possession of 100 metres of aluminium conductor wire belonging to power utility service provider.
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ESCOM thus commends the Judiciary through Chiradzulu First Grade Magistrate’s Court, which on September 30, 2026 convicted and sentenced Bize Tsabola (54) and Yamikani Mlolo (20) to the 10 years imprisonment with hard labour each for vandalising ESCOM property.
ESCOM describes the ruling as decisive against the continued vandalism of electricity infrastructure, saying it reaffirms the importance of protecting critical power infrastructure from theft and damage.
According to a report by deputy public relations officer, Chiradzulu Police mounted a snap checkpoint at Yasini where they arrested Tsabola in possession of 100 metres of aluminium conductor wire.
ESCOM identified the wires as its property, which were worth K1 million, and during interrogation, Tsabola named his accomplice, Mlolo, who was waiting at Undi Resthouse at Thomas Trading Centre.
“Police raided the resthouse, arrested Mlolo who was found with a pair of cutting pliers susceptibly used in committing the offence.
The police report indicates that “both men pleaded not guilty but the State, through Prosecutor Superintendent, Peter Piringu called three witnesses who proved their case”.
“In mitigation, Mlolo said nothing while Tsabola asked for leniency, saying he is a Malawian citizen and that his daughter, who has just been selected to secondary school depends on him.”
However, Magistrate Smart Mwaruwasa sentenced each man to 120 months’ imprisonment with hard labour to deter would be offenders.
The aluminium conductor wires are used to manufacture kitchen pots and pans commonly being sold by street vendors
Thus ESCOM applauds the Police, the judiciary and the public for tipping law enforcement in the fight against vandalism of its critical infrastructure.
The power utility service provider reiterates that “vandalism and theft of electricity infrastructure disrupt power supply, divert resources meant for improving electricity services and put communities at risk”.
“The Corporation urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around electricity infrastructure to law enforcement agencies.
“See something, say something — let’s defeat vandalism together. Report by calling ESCOM via 2020 or 3030.
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