Simbarashe Butawu, a 31-year-old man, recently faced serious legal consequences when he appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court, charged with violating the Postal and Telecommunications Act.
The incident in question occurred on July 15, 2024, at approximately 9:00 AM, when Butawu made his way to a TelOne manhole located opposite number 14 on Wenlock Road in Hatfield.
His intention was clear ; he aimed to cut and steal 50 underground copper cables that are essential for telecommunications services in the Hatfield Extension community.
Armed with a hacksaw, Butawu began to sever the valuable cables, demonstrating a blatant disregard for both the law and the impact of his actions on the local community.
However, his criminal endeavor was short-lived; he was spotted by an informant who recognized the suspicious activity and promptly intervened.
As Butawu attempted to flee the scene with the stolen cables, he was apprehended and subsequently handed over to law enforcement authorities.
The total estimated value of the damaged cables was reported to be around USD 200.
In light of the seriousness of his actions, the court sentenced Butawu to a substantial prison term of ten years.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe has taken a firm stance against such crimes, emphasizing that theft or vandalism of TelOne drop wires will attract mandatory sentences of ten years imprisonment.
Such stringent measures are intended to deter individuals from engaging in similar criminal acts that undermine essential services and disrupt communication for countless residents.
Furthermore, the authorities aim to protect the investments made in public infrastructure, ensuring they remain intact for the benefit of the community as a whole.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
