Mutare Correspondent
Mutare – Residents of Mutare are grappling with dual crises after a critical ZESA transformer was stolen and a major water transmission line burst, plunging parts of the city into darkness and threatening water supplies.
A 200 KVA transformer valued at US$10,000, owned by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), was stolen from the Dangamvura S200 substation on May 21.
The theft, discovered around 9 a.m., caused widespread power outages and disrupted essential services, heightening risks for residents and utility workers.
Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident, stating that ZETDC loss control officer Faustina Chikuse (52) was alerted after a fault report from Dangamvura filling station.
“The ZESA team found the transformer missing upon inspection. Suspects used an unknown tool to dismantle the mounts, and the crime was only detected after the outage,” he explained.
Authorities have yet to make arrests or recover the equipment. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka urged the public to assist:
“We appeal to anyone with information to come forward to ensure the perpetrators face justice.”
In a separate blow, Mutare faces imminent water shortages after a vandalized 700mm clear water transmission line burst, severely reducing supply to the Christma Pass balancing tanks.
The Mutare City Council announced repairs would begin on May 23, 2024, with water bowsers deployed to affected areas.
“Residents are advised to use water sparingly during this period,” the council stated, emphasizing the strain on resources.
The vandalism compounds challenges for a city already reeling from electricity disruptions.
The twin incidents have sparked concerns over infrastructure security and public welfare. ZETDC and city officials warn that such crimes endanger lives and destabilize economic activities.
As repair teams mobilize, residents brace for days of hardship, calling for heightened vigilance and swift action to safeguard utilities.
Updates to follow as developments emerge.
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