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) following an intelligence-led operation.
The suspect, identified as Lester Henrey Kaopsya, was arrested after detectives intercepted him while he was allegedly attempting to sell the stolen meters to a scrap metal dealer within Zomba.
According to Commissioner of Police for Eastern Region Jane Mandala, the arrest was carried out by Detective Inspector Allan Manjolo, the Criminal Investigations Officer at Zomba Police Station.
Mandala said the operation followed several reports from residents in different parts of the city regarding the theft of water meters installed by the Southern Region Water Board.
She explained that during the arrest, officers recovered three damaged water meters which were found in the suspect’s possession.
The Commissioner further say the suspect intended to sell the items as scrap metal.
“Officials from the Southern Region Water Board have since positively identified all three recovered meters as part of their infrastructure,” she said.
Mandala say investigations are continuing to track down other individuals believed to be involved in the thefts and to dismantle the wider criminal network suspected of targeting water infrastructure in the city.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
