Recently vandalised distribution line in Phalombe
* This judgment sends a clear message that the justice system will not take such offenses lightly—police prosecutor, Sub-Inspector Martin Kuliyani
* This is a welcome ruling that reinforces our call for stiffer penalties against perpetrators of vandalism—ESCOM publicist Pilirani Phiri
By Duncan Mlanjira
The amended Electricity Act of 2024 that was initiated to mitigate the rampant theft of Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi ESCOM infrastructure has been enforced on two men in Mchinji, who have been sentenced to 14 years in prison for tampering with ESCOM infrastructure — prompting the corporation to issue a fresh public appeal to assist in the fight against vandalisation.
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A report from ESCOM public relations and communication department, identical the two as Pemphero Kafera Mbewe (30) from Noti Village under Traditional Authority (T/A) Kazyozyo and Lloyd Peter (30), from Sholi Village T/A Zulu — who were convicted by the Mchinji Magistrate Court for vandalizing ESCOM cables, “a crime that continues to derail efforts to expand electricity access across the country”.
ESCOM says the conviction followed a successful operation by Mchinji Police and police prosecutor, Sub-Inspector Martin Kuliyani, described the sentence as “extraordinary and a strong deterrent for would-be offenders”.
“This judgment sends a clear message that the justice system will not take such offenses lightly,” Kuliyani is quoted as saying — and reacting to the development, ESCOM’s chief public relations & communications officer, Pilirani Phiri, lauded the ruling and emphasised that “vandalism of power infrastructure is not only illegal but also sabotages national development efforts”.
ESCOM publicist, Pilirani Phiri
“This is a welcome ruling that reinforces our call for stiffer penalties against perpetrators of vandalism,” Phiri said, adding that “the theft and destruction of ESCOM infrastructure directly affect service delivery, delay connections, and increase operational costs, which in turn impact all Malawians”.
He extended appreciation to the Malawi Police Service, particularly the Mchinji Police Station, for the swift response and collaboration that led to the arrest and successful prosecution of the culprits.
He once more appealed to the members of the public to join hands in safeguarding electricity infrastructure — asking them “to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity”.
“Power infrastructure is a national asset, and its protection is a shared responsibility,” he said, while reiterating that “vandalism is a serious criminal offense under the law, and ESCOM will continue working closely with law enforcement to ensure that offenders are brought to justice”.
As cases of vandalism persist, ESCOM is intensifying public awareness campaigns and strengthening surveillance mechanisms to curb the vice and ensure reliable electricity supply across Malawi — while calling on people to join forces, emphasising that it has become a significant challenge for the company’s operations.
Pilirani Phiri spoke to Malawi News Agency (MANA) two days ago, expressing 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.
Transformer that was brought don in Phalombe with its accessories scattered around
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 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.
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On its part, 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.”—Additional content by MANA
