For stealing copper cables used in energy transmission that were worth $3,000 USD, three robbers from Chinhoyi were each sentenced to ten years in prison.
William Mapuranga (age 22) and Ronald Mapuranga (age 20) were the two brothers who were accused of violating section 60 of the Electricity Act chapter 13:19 along with Edson Mbewe (age 22). “Cuts, damages, destruction, or interference with any apparatus used for generating, transmitting, distributing, or providing electricity” are prohibited under the legislation.
Following a thorough trial, Regional Magistrate Ignatius Mugova found the trio guilty and handed down a 10-year prison term to each of them. Dennis Sinoti, another suspect, is currently standing trial after entering a not guilty plea. Wanjin Corporation, the complainant in the case, is represented by security guard Tichaona Jenhu.
According to the state’s evidence, which was overseen by prosecutor Nyasha Sibesha, four accused individuals conspired to steal copper cables on November 12, 2022, at 11 p.m., and then went to Hunyani Farm. While on the farm, the gang cut 250 meters of armored copper cables connecting to an 11 KVA power line that powers a Wanjin Company irrigation center pivot with energy.
They travelled to Banket, where they sold the stolen goods to one Magirazi and split the proceeds before loading the contraband into a getaway vehicle driven by Musa Manyatera. After being detained by farm security officials on December 12 of last year due to a tip, Mbewe accused his co-accused individuals.