ZESA Blames Unemployed Technicians For Vandalism Of Electricity Infrastructure

The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) has blamed unemployed technicians for the rampant theft of copper cables and vandalism of other electricity infrastructure.

ZESA spokesperson Fullard Gwasira revealed that the power utility has already lost property worth US$2 million this year. He said:

Zesa property is vandalised. Last year only, we lost Zesa property worth US$4,2 million and this year so far, we have lost property worth US$2 million.

We have qualified electricians who are roaming the streets and are jobless, so you will find that those are the people who vandalise Zesa property because they have electrical experience.

While residents have blamed ZESA employees of vandalising electricity infrastructure, Gwasira was quick to absolve ZESA personnel. Said Gwasira:

We have never had any member of our staff being arrested for stealing or conniving with copper thieves, but I can tell you that people who steal Zesa property are financially stable people because they go to an extent of buying vehicles like ours.

Not only that, but they also brand them ZETDC. They even get themselves branded uniforms. In that way, they come and steal property during broad daylight as people will just think it’s Zesa people doing their job.

In Bulawayo’s Lochview and Sunninghill areas, residents have reportedly formed groups who take turns to guard copper cables in the areas to prevent blackouts.

More: Newsday