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ZESCO Limited has reported a sharp increase in property losses for December 2024, totaling K7,457,538.99, up from K5,701,599.15 in November.
Company spokesperson, Matongo Maumbi, attributed the rise to persistent security challenges, despite proactive measures to combat vandalism, theft, fraud, abuse of power, and corruption.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, Maumbi noted that theft remained the biggest threat, with 1,078 cases recorded in December, primarily involving stolen service cables.
While vandalism cases dropped by 15 percent to 220, down from 253 in November, the overall number of security-related incidents rose slightly to 1,328, compared to 1,278 in the previous month.
Despite the losses, ZESCO’s intensified security measures led to the recovery of assets worth K877,672.30, the arrest of 61 individuals, and 11 convictions.
However, Maumbi stated that these losses highlighted the ongoing threats to Zambia’s electricity infrastructure.
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In a related incident, a young man was fatally electrocuted in Mufulira while attempting to steal a live conductor from a power line.
He warned that such activities not only endanger lives but also disrupt the reliability of the country’s electricity supply.
Maumbi commended community members for their vigilance in reporting suspicious activities, which have played a crucial role in preventing further losses.
He urged the public to continue supporting ZESCO’s security initiatives by reporting suspicious activities and avoiding interference with electricity installations.
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