JUSTICE SERVED: Two Sentenced to Ten Years for Vandalism of Public Infrastructure

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the successful arrest and conviction of two individuals for the vandalism of essential public telecommunications infrastructure in Kuwadzana 5, Harare. The conviction marks a significant enforcement action against those tampering with public utilities, with the court handing down a sentence of ten years' imprisonment to each of the accused.

The two convicted individuals, Tinotenda Nyajichi (20) and Pilot Muzira (27), both residents of Dzivarasekwa, Harare, were apprehended following an incident that occurred on April 14, 2026. The pair was caught after they proceeded to a TelOne pole, where they cut drop wires weighing approximately 15kg and loaded them into two sacks.

The successful recovery of the stolen infrastructure was attributed to an alert member of the public who notified the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Minerals, Flora, and Fauna. The detectives responded swiftly, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the loot.

The case was heard at the Harare Magistrates Court on April 21, 2026, before Magistrate Mr. Noel Mupeiwa. The state was represented by Public Prosecutor Ms. Mandirasa Chigumira. Following a full trial, the duo was convicted for contravening Section 89(4)(c) of the Postal and Telecommunication Act, Chapter 12:05, which prohibits the possession of telecommunications infrastructure material without a permit. Each was subsequently sentenced to ten years in prison.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the vandalism of public utilities. Law enforcement authorities emphasized that such criminal acts negatively impact national development and are effectively "tantamount to economic sabotage". Police are encouraging continued public cooperation in safeguarding national infrastructure. Members of the public are urged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the following channels:

• National Complaints Desk: (0242) 703631

• PGHQ WhatsApp: 0712 800 197

• CID WhatsApp: 0776 988 007

• Digital Platforms: Visit the ZRP website at www.zrp.gov.zw or contact their X handle @PoliceZimbabwe.

  
  

Zimbabwe infrastructure vandalism conviction