Police in Balaka have arrested a 50-year-old man, Elia Kanyeleza, for allegedly stealing ESCOM tower members valued at 22 million kwacha.

According to Balaka Police spokesperson Gladson M’bumpha, the suspect was apprehended on January 9, 2025, at Naming’azi after a long-standing investigation. Kanyeleza, a resident of Nyanyala Village under Senior Chief Nyanyala in Balaka, is accused of stealing 598 tower members. However, during his arrest, police recovered only 45 of the stolen items.

M’bumpha stated that the suspect appeared before the court yesterday to answer theft-related charges. Investigations are ongoing to recover the remaining stolen materials.

ESCOM has been facing increasing cases of vandalism and theft of its infrastructure, leading to power supply disruptions in some areas. Authorities have warned that stern action will be taken against those involved in such crimes.

The suspect remains in custody as the case proceeds.