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Harare Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Stealing Electricity Cables
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A Harare man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after being convicted of stealing underground electricity cables, in a case that highlights ongoing challenges in Zimbabwe’s fight against infrastructure vandalism.
Hillary Mutanhaurwa pleaded guilty before Harare magistrate Appollonia Marutya, following his arrest on 30 April 2025 at 138 Kwame Nkrumah Street, Harare. According to State prosecutors, Mutanhaurwa dug up and cut a ZETDC underground core armoured cable, only to be caught in the act by security guards who immediately apprehended him.
Authorities revealed that Mutanhaurwa led security personnel to the recovery of the stolen cable and the hoe he had used during the theft, with both items submitted as evidence in court.
While the stolen cable, valued at US$100, was recovered, the incident underscores a broader concern over infrastructure theft, which continues to impact power distribution and public services.
Zimbabwe’s electricity provider, ZETDC, has repeatedly warned that cable theft disrupts supply and increases repair costs, urging communities to report suspicious activities.
