By Hopeson Kafumbwa, Public Relations Intern
Police in Mchinji have arrested two brothers for allegedly vandalizing and stealing Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) Limited copper cables in the Eastern border district.
Mchinji Police spokesperson, Limbani Mpinganjira, confirmed the arrest of Mabvuto Mbewe , aged 42, and 28-year-old Pemphero Mbewe, both from Note Village, Traditional Authority Kazyozyo in the district.
“The suspects vandalized three electric wire cable poles and stole 100 meters of wire cables in June 2025,” he said.
Mpinganjira said police officers arrested the first suspect, Mabvuto, earlier this month while in possession of pieces of the stolen wire cables, which he wanted to sell at Mgubo Market in the district.
He eventually implicated his brother Pemphero, who was also arrested and will appear in court soon.
Mavuto appeared before the Mchinji First Grade Magistrate’s Court on June 11, 2025, where he was charged with being found in possession of stolen ESCOM properties contrary to the Electricity Act.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge, and the case was adjourned to June 17, 2025, for the State to parade its witnesses.
The Police has since urged community members to refrain from stealing ESCOM assets, as doing so affects service delivery, including for the health, education and business sectors.
“Stealing and vandalising ESCOM properties is a major problem here in Mchinji, and the police, in conjunction with community policing forums, are trying their best to curb the malpractice. We warn the public against indulging in such malpractice,” Mpinganjira said.
According to the Electricity Amendment Act of 2024, being found in possession of stolen ESCOM equipment and vandalising the same, attract a maximum 30-year jail term with no option of paying a fine.