Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
A 22-YEAR-OLD Highfield man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by the Harare Magistrates’ Court for vandalising ZESA Holdings infrastructure.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said the offence took place on April 29, 2025, when the man and two accomplices entered a ZESA substation in Dzivaresekwa Extension.
“Using a bolt cutter, they removed a nine-metre copper conductor worth US$1 080,” said the NPAZ. “Police were alerted and moved in to stop the theft. One suspect fled, another was shot and died while the 22-year-old was arrested.”
The authorities said he was later charged with vandalism of critical national infrastructure and convicted.
“The offender was sentenced to an effective 10 years’ imprisonment for vandalising ZESA infrastructure. The protection of electricity installations is critical to ensuring reliable supply for communities and industries,” said the NPAZ.
The authority warned that vandalism of power infrastructure disrupts electricity supply and undermines service delivery.
It urged the public to support efforts to safeguard installations as such crimes will continue to be prosecuted.
“We urge the public to put efforts to safeguard installations. Such crimes will continue to be prosecuted firmly,” said the NPAZ.
