MILLICENT HUNGWE
In a judgment aimed at deterring vandalism of public infrastructure, four men have been sentenced to 30 years imprisonment each for stealing copper windings and damaging electricity transformers in Mutoko, Mashonaland East Province.
The ZRP National Spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that Anderson Takawira (30), Isaac Vheremu (38), Trymore Bona (30), and Archford Chiyangwa (25) were convicted for violating Section 60A(3) of the Electricity Act [Chapter 13:19], which prohibits tampering with or damaging apparatus used for transmitting or distributing electricity.
On 28 January 2025, the gang targeted two 100kv ZETDC transformers at Mushimbo and Rukau Business Centres, where they stole about 6 meters of armored cable after deliberately damaging the infrastructure.
However, their actions did not go unnoticed, alert villagers were drawn to the scene by the loud bang caused by the falling transformer, realizing they had been discovered, the suspects fled in their getaway vehicle.
Quick-thinking villagers reported the incident to the police, leading to the swift mounting of a roadblock that successfully intercepted and apprehended the culprits.
The four appeared before Mutoko Magistrate Caroline Matanga, who handed down a 30-year sentence for each of them.
However, 10 years were suspended, five on condition of restitution for the damaged state property and another five on condition of good behavior. They will serve an effective 20 years in prison each.
Detective Inspector Muteweri Rachel, the Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer, applauded the judiciary for the stiff sentence and thanked the public for their vigilance.
She emphasized that the police remain committed to safeguarding national infrastructure and warned others involved in similar crimes that justice will be served.
