The Dedza Senior Resident Magistrate’s Court has sentenced John Maloya to 4 years imprisonment with hard labour for stealing and damaging Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi stay wires that support poles which are valued at K2.2 million.

Through State Prosecutor Inspector Patrick Chipote, the court heard that the convict who was once a casual worker for Escom in Dedza was seen vandalizing wires the property at Mandala township in the district and when questioned by members of the community, he lied that he was still working for the utility body.

Maloya was later arrested and charged with two counts, one of theft and of damaging ESCOM property which he pleaded guilty.