ZOMBA, Malawi — Eastern Region Police have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the theft of water meters belonging to the Southern Region Water Board (SRWB).
The suspect, identified as Lester Henrey Kaopsya, was intercepted while allegedly trying to sell the stolen meters to a scrap metal dealer in Zomba.
According to Eastern Region Police Commissioner Jane Mandala, the arrest was conducted by Detective Inspector Allan Manjolo, the Criminal Investigations Officer at Zomba Police Station, following multiple reports from residents about stolen SRWB meters.
During the operation, officers recovered three damaged water meters, all of which were later confirmed by SRWB as part of their infrastructure. The meters were reportedly intended to be sold as scrap metal.
Commissioner Mandala added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals believed to be involved, with the aim of dismantling a broader criminal network targeting water infrastructure in the city.
Kaopsya is expected to appear in court soon.
