The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has disclosed that it is losing K3 billion every year due to vandalism of its infrastructure.

This follows the conviction of 27-year-old Kashoni Kasitomu, who has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for vandalizing ESCOM infrastructure near Kapinga Trading Center in Lilongwe.

Kaitomu was also given a three-year custodial sentence for theft, but the sentence will run concurrently.

ESCOM Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer Pilirani Phiri said the ruling serves as a warning to would-be offenders that ESCOM takes the protection of its property seriously. 

"We welcome the ruling of the court to impose such a significant penalty. This sends a clear message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated, and those who engage in vandalism will face severe consequences," said Phiri.

Phiri says ESCOM is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its infrastructure, adding they will continue to work with law enforcers to deal with the vice.