Police in Mangochi have arrested a 46-year-old man, Yusuf Ahamadu Mpunga, for unlawfully wounding an Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) official following a dispute over an electricity connection in Ndata area.

According to Mangochi Police Station Public Relations Officer, the incident occurred on March 24, 2025, around 16:45 hours, when Chipiliro Banda, 31, a linesman based at ESCOM’s Mangochi Branch, was working with his colleagues to connect electricity for new customers in the area.

During the installation, the team connected a twin wire from a pole located within Mpunga’s compound. However, after they moved on to assist other customers, the suspect followed them, accusing the officials of using his pole without his consent.

In a fit of rage, Mpunga allegedly grabbed Banda by the neck and demanded the immediate removal of the wire. He then picked up an ESCOM safety belt from the ground and struck Banda on the head, inflicting two deep cuts. Out of fear, the other ESCOM officials complied and removed the wire from the pole.

The incident was reported to Mangochi Police Station, and the victim was treated as an outpatient at Mangochi District Hospital.

Meanwhile, police have arrested Mpunga, who will appear in court soon to face charges of unlawful wounding upon completion of legal formalities.

The suspect hails from Mgundaphiri Village, Traditional Authority Mapira, in Mangochi District.