Seven individuals have been convicted by the Chiseka Magistrate’s Court in Lilongwe for offences related to vandalism, theft, and fraudulent appropriation of water belonging to the Lilongwe Water Board (LWB).
The cases were heard before Second Grade Magistrate Rose Chirwa, who imposed fines and custodial sentences while ordering compensation to the LWB.
One of the convicts, 22-year-old Paul Mkozomba of Liponga Village, Traditional Authority Mthiramanja in Mulanje District, has been convicted for receiving stolen property, which is contrary to Section 328(1) of the Penal Code.
He has been fined MWK3.4 million or, in default serve three years’ imprisonment with hard labour. The court has further ordered that MWK2 million from the fine if paid, go to LWB as compensation.
The other six convicts Janet Thokothoko, Angella Matanda, Ulemu Samson, Matilda Mchenga, Catherine Idrissa, and Magdalena Chitedze, have been convicted of fraudulent appropriation of water, contrary to Section 298A of the Penal Code.
Collectively, they have been fined MWK2.78 million, with default sentences of 12 months’ imprisonment with hard labour.
The court has further ordered that MWK2.03 million from the fines if paid, go to the Lilongwe Water Board as compensation for the losses incurred.
The successful convictions reflect the strong working relationship between LWB and the Malawi Police Service (MPS) in investigating, prosecuting, and securing convictions against individuals involved in vandalism, theft and illegal water connections.
LWB says it continues to work closely with the MPS and other stakeholders to curb vandalism and theft of its infrastructure.
Its spokesperson Chisomo Chibwana says the Board is satisfied with the support it continues to receive from the MPS in investigating and prosecuting vandalism and theft cases.
“We have not observed any misconduct or challenges regarding the conduct of police officers in handling suspected vandalism or theft cases in the course of their law enforcement duties,” Chibwana says.
Central West Police spokesperson Foster Benjamin warns that offenders would continue to face the full force of the law.
“Those involved in vandalism and theft of public infrastructure must stop. It is our mandate to enforce the law, and we are working around the clock to ensure every culprit is arrested and brought before the courts,” Benjamin says.
According to LWB records, 1,649 cases of water meter theft were recorded between April 2024 and January 2025.
The figure dropped to 845 cases during the corresponding period between April 2025 and January 2026, reflecting the impact of intensified enforcement and public awareness efforts, although the crime remains a major concern.
