EDM, Mozambique’s state-owned power utility, retrieved 12 tonnes of stolen copper and 80 radiators in Matola, impacting thousands of customers. The stolen materials caused significant financial losses, prompting a need for enhanced preventative measures against theft. Authorities arrested the individuals involved in the theft, highlighting ongoing collaboration between EDM and law enforcement to address the issue.
Mozambique’s state-owned power utility, EDM, recently recovered approximately 12 tonnes of stolen copper and 80 radiators in Matola. The materials were taken from the utility’s infrastructure, significantly impacting service delivery and resulting in unspecified financial losses. Meque Licenga, EDM’s Electrical Infrastructure supervisor, stated that the thefts predominantly affected Transformer Stations and Distribution Lines, which in turn disrupted electricity for thousands of customers.
Licenga confirmed that law enforcement apprehended both the truck driver and the truck owner, who are now facing prosecution for the theft. Furthermore, he emphasized that EDM is committed to enhancing preventative measures against equipment theft, revealing that in 2024, the company suffered losses of roughly 28 million meticais (approximately $438,000). The situation has escalated since 2021, when losses from vandalism hit around 260 million meticais.
He also noted that such criminal activities hinder progress towards achieving Universal Access to energy by 2030. Police spokesperson Hélder Juvêncio highlighted that the seizure was made possible through ongoing inspections prompted by complaints from both EDM and local citizens. Increased enforcement efforts led to the recovery of materials intended for illegal export to South Africa.
EDM’s recovery of 12 tonnes of stolen copper illustrates the ongoing challenges of theft and vandalism within Mozambique’s electricity sector. The financial impact of such crimes is significant, hindering the company’s ability to provide reliable service and achieve energy access goals. Continued collaboration between law enforcement and the community remains critical to combat these growing issues.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
