By Evelyn Nyikayaramba
Macheke -In a significant breakthrough, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Macheke recovered 105 kilograms of copper wire suspected to have been stolen from ZESA transformers.The property was identified during a routine stop-and-search operation on January 20th in the early hours of the morning, around 3 AM.
The suspects were apprehended when their vehicle was intercepted at the Macheke Government School intersection. Upon conducting a search, police discovered the stolen copper cables, which are believed to have been taken from transformers on the Manicaland side.
Speaking on the matter, Officer in Charge of ZRP Macheke, Inspector Daima Zhowalehe, expressed his satisfaction with the operation. "This is a significant arrest as the theft of ZESA property has been an ongoing issue in the region. We remain committed to tracking down and apprehending those involved in these crimes, which not only affect the energy supply but also undermine the security of critical infrastructure."
Under the ZESA Act, it is illegal for any unlicensed individual to be found in possession of ZESA property, including cables and transformers. The Act specifically prohibits the theft or unauthorized possession of materials belonging to the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), which is essential for maintaining the country’s power infrastructure. Those found in violation face severe legal consequences, including hefty fines and imprisonment. "We will ensure that those found in possession of stolen ZESA property face the full wrath of the law," Inspector Zhowalehe added.
The authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information as to where thecopper cables could have been possibly stolen from.In line with the ZESA Act, the suspects face charges for being in possession of ZESA property without a license, an offense punishable by law.
The arrested individuals are now awaiting trial and sentencing. The ZRP expressed satisfaction with the arrest, highlighting the growing concern over the theft of ZESA property. These incidents, which have led to disruptions in power supply and costly damages to infrastructure, are a growing threat to the nation’s energy sector.
"In these challenging times, we ask the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the theft of ZESA property. Together, we can fight these crimes and protect our infrastructure," Inspector Zhowalehe said
This successful operation demonstrates the police's commitment to curbing theft and ensuring that those responsible for illegal activities, especially those that disrupt critical services, are brought to justice. The authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and assist in the fight against such criminal activities.Macheke News