Four Arrested Over Attempted Transformer Vandalism in Thyolo
Published on June 23, 2026 at 10:28 AM by Edgar Naitha
Four men are in police custody in Thyolo after they were allegedly caught attempting to vandalise an ESCOM transformer at Eastern Produce Malawi (EPM) Estate.
The suspects were arrested during the night of June 21 and 22, 2026, after they allegedly pulled down and dismantled a 100 kVA transformer in an attempt to steal copper windings.
ESCOM Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer Pilirani Phiri said the suspects were apprehended through the combined efforts of EPM estate security guards and vigilant community members, who alerted authorities and helped stop the theft.
Phiri commended the community and estate guards for their swift response, saying their actions prevented further damage to critical electricity infrastructure.
The four suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.
ESCOM has since urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around electricity installations to help curb vandalism and protect essential infrastructure.
