EDM, Mozambique’s public electricity utility, has recovered 12 tonnes of stolen copper and 80 radiators in Matola, leading to ongoing issues of financial loss and electricity access for residents. The theft has incurred significant losses, prompting EDM to invest in prevention measures and law enforcement to combat vandalism.
The publicly-owned electricity utility company, Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), reported the recovery of approximately 12 tonnes of stolen copper and 80 radiators in Matola. Meque Licenga, the EDM Electrical Infrastructure supervisor, stated that these materials were taken from the company’s facilities, leading to significant financial losses and affecting numerous residents’ access to electricity.
Licenga noted that the copper cables were stolen from Transformer Stations (PTs) and Distribution Lines, impacting thousands of customers. He emphasized that vandalism of electrical infrastructure remains a significant challenge for EDM, necessitating ongoing efforts to combat such acts. The driver and truck owner transporting the stolen items have been arrested and are undergoing prosecution.
In light of these incidents, Licenga confirmed that EDM would bolster its investment in preventive measures against theft, which resulted in losses of approximately 28 million meticais (about 438,000 USD) in 2024 alone, with a peak loss of 260 million meticais recorded in 2021. “Acts of vandalism delay the fulfillment of the goal of Universal Access to energy by 2030,” he remarked.
Hélder Juvêncio, the police spokesperson in Matola, underscored that the seizure was made possible through routine inspections initiated after receiving complaints from EDM and the public. “We received complaints from EDM, which forced us to step up our enforcement work,” Juvêncio explained, detailing the successful intervention which prevented the copper from being transported to South Africa.
In conclusion, the recovery of stolen copper by EDM highlights the ongoing challenge of vandalism within Mozambique’s electrical infrastructure. The significant financial implications and adverse effects on electricity access underscore the urgent need for enhanced preventive measures and enforcement actions. Both EDM and local authorities are committed to addressing theft to achieve the goal of universal energy access by 2030.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
