Malawi: Scrap Dealer Injured In Electric Shock During Alleged Attempt To Vandalise ESCOM Transformer In Mzuzu

A 39-year-old scrap dealer, Amon Nkhata, sustained serious injuries after suffering an electric shock while allegedly attempting to vandalise an Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) transformer at St. John of God in Chibanja, Mzuzu, on Thursday, 5 November 2026.

According to ESCOM, Nkhata was found trapped inside the transformer cage after allegedly attempting to cut an electrical cable.

The power utility said he sustained severe injuries to one hand and one leg and was taken to Mzuzu Central Hospital by police.

Police are investigating the incident.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over vandalism and theft of electricity infrastructure in Malawi.

Energy Minister Dr Jean Chifuniro Mathanga recently told Parliament that at least 100 areas had reported cases of stolen or damaged electricity equipment. She described the vandalism as a major setback to the government’s efforts to expand electricity access.

Mathanga said the ministry was working with law enforcement agencies, local leaders and communities to strengthen surveillance and encourage the reporting of suspected offenders.

ESCOM board member Welford Sabola also expressed concern over increasing vandalism of the corporation’s infrastructure, saying it continued to undermine efforts to improve electricity supply and expand access across the country.

ESCOM warned that tampering with transformers, substations and other electrical installations could cause severe burns, permanent injuries or death.

The utility urged the public to avoid accessing electricity installations without authorisation and to report suspicious activities to ESCOM or police.

It said vandalism endangered lives, disrupted electricity supply and increased the cost-of-service delivery, adding that protecting infrastructure serving homes, businesses and essential services was a shared responsibility.