Lilongwe Police, ESCOM seek chiefs' help to fight vandalism

Lilongwe Police and ESCOM call on chiefs to fight theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure, writes Foster Benjamin.

Lilongwe, Malawi - Lilongwe Police Station, in collaboration with the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM), has urged chiefs under Traditional Authority Njewa to intensify efforts in combating theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure, writes Foster Benjamin.

This call was made during a meeting held on Monday, May 22, 2023, at the T/A Njewa Headquarters, where representatives from the police and ESCOM engaged with traditional leaders.

Assistant Superintendent Gift Mzembe, the community policing coordinator of Lilongwe Police Station, said, "We call upon the chiefs to be vigilant and work hand in hand with us to put an end to the theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure."

ESCOM Regional Manager, MacVittie Chiphwanya, highlighted the prevalence of vandalism in Ngwenje and Kandama villages, stating, "Vandals have been cutting off poles and ripping off wires, particularly in these areas. We strongly urge the chiefs to sensitise their subjects about the devastating impacts of vandalism, as it incurs substantial costs to replace the damaged infrastructure."

In response, Traditional Authority Njewa urged her subordinates to collaborate closely with the police in combating vandalism of ESCOM infrastructure, emphasising, "This is our own property, and it is our responsibility to protect it."

Lilongwe Kumachenga legislator, Marko Ching'onga, expressed his commitment to support the fight against vandalism, promising, "By December this year, I pledge to build two police units at Four Ways and Nakuwawa to enhance security and strengthen our efforts against vandalism."

Inspector Rodney Bottoman, a prosecutor from Lilongwe Police Station, provided insights into the offences and penalties under the Electricity Act, stating, "It is crucial that we understand the legal consequences associated with theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure."

The joint efforts of Lilongwe Police and ESCOM, along with the active involvement of traditional leaders and community members, aim to curb theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure.

This collaboration seeks to safeguard public property and ensure the uninterrupted provision of electricity services in the region.