By Shaffie A Mtambo
Police in Mangochi have arrested Kenneth Juwawo on suspicion of vandalizing and stealing ESCOM cables, causing a power blackout in Matenganya Village, Traditional Authority Chowe.
Speaking with 247 Malawi News Mangochi Police Public Relations Officer Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi, says the man have been identified as Juwawo, from Sakweda Village, Traditional Authority Kaduya in Phalombe, was found in possession of 206 pieces of ORK 100mm aluminum conductor cables, which he had concealed inside a fish basket.
Daudi added that according to reports, on March 24, 2025, at around 01:00 hrs, residents of Matenganya Village intercepted Juwawo as he emerged from a nearby bush, riding a bicycle and carrying the fish basket.
When questioned, he initially claimed he was transporting tomatoes to M’balula Market. However, a search of the basket revealed the stolen ESCOM cables.
Juwawo was immediately apprehended and handed over to Mangochi Police, where he remains in custody pending court proceedings.
Meanwhile, the stolen items have been identified by ESCOM officials.
Police in the district continue to warn the public against vandalizing essential infrastructure, emphasizing that such acts disrupt communities and carry severe legal consequences.
