Police in Mangochi have arrested Yusuf Ahamadu Mpunga, 46, for unlawfully wounding an Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) official over an electricity connection dispute in Ndata area of the district.
The incident occurred on March 24, 2025, at around 16:45 hours when Chipiliro Banda, 31, a linesman based at Mangochi ESCOM Branch, was on duty with his colleagues, connecting electricity for new customers in the area.
During the exercise, the team connected a twin wire from a pole located within the suspect’s compound. After they moved on to assist other customers, the suspect followed and accused them of using his pole to supply electricity to others without his consent.
In a fit of rage, he grabbed Banda by the neck and ordered the ESCOM officials to remove the wire immediately. He then picked up an ESCOM safety belt from the ground and struck Banda on the head, inflicting two deep cuts. Out of fear, the other ESCOM officials complied and removed the wire from the pole.
The matter was reported to Mangochi Police Station, and the victim was referred to Mangochi District Hospital, where he was treated as an outpatient.
Meanwhile, police have arrested the suspect, who will appear in court soon to answer charges of unlawful wounding upon completion of paperwork.
The suspect hails from Mgundaphiri Village, Traditional Authority Mapira, Mangochi District.
Inspector Amina Tepani Daudi
Public Relations Officer
Mangochi Police Station
Cell: 0999-706-525
Email: amina.tepani@police.gov.mw
Website: www.police.gov.mw