Zvishavane, Zimbabwe – July 16, 2025 –
Three men from the Chief Jahani area in Zvishavane have been sentenced to prison for vandalising electricity infrastructure and theft, following a court appearance at the Zvishavane Magistrates’ Court.
Obert Sivindi (23), Needmore Mavhundutse (26), and Bennington Mpofu (33) were convicted for targeting a national power facility and stealing valuable equipment at Golden Horn Joint Chrome Mine in Mhonondongori on 11 July 2025.
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According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of Zimbabwe, the trio unlawfully cut and stole a 50-metre armored ZESA electricity cable valued at US$2,000. The stolen cable was hidden in a local shop. Later that same night, they broke into the mine’s control room and stole an oxygen gas tank, a cutting torch, and an LPG gas tank, collectively worth US$230.
Fortunately, all stolen property was recovered through swift police action.
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Zvishavane Men Sentencing Details
The magistrate handed down the following sentences:
- Count 1 – Vandalising Power Infrastructure: 10 years imprisonment each
- Count 2 – Theft: US$80 fine each or 3 months imprisonment if the fine is not paid
The NPA emphasized that acts targeting national infrastructure are not only theft but are also considered sabotage. These crimes endanger public safety and hinder economic growth.
“Crimes that target national infrastructure are not just theft, they are acts of sabotage that threaten economic development and public safety. Communities must unite in reporting such conduct,” the NPA stated in its bulletin.
Public Urged to Report Vandalism
The authorities are calling on all Zimbabweans to report any acts of cable theft, infrastructure damage, or suspicious activity. Public cooperation is key to protecting national assets and maintaining an uninterrupted power supply.
This case sends a strong message that damaging power infrastructure has serious consequences.
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