Zesa spokeperson, Sherperd Mandizvidza said vandalism has impacted heavily of the power utility to expand its network.
He said ZETDC lost copper conductors worth $3, 9 million, while the theft of transformer oil and general damage to transformers was in the magnitude of $356 000.
Mandizvidza added that vandalism of electricity pylons cost the company $400 000.
We cannot expand the network because we are concentrating on replacements. This has slowed down our efforts to put new connections on the national grid. Consumers are also being affected as some power cuts are a result of vandalism, he said.
Zesa transmission equipment is targeted by criminals because it fetches high prices in neighbouring countries such as South Africa, Mozambique and Botswana.
Post published in: News