Man cuts electrical cables in Matola, leaving neighborhoods in the dark

On Monday afternoon, a man climbed an electricity pole in the city of Matola and cut high-voltage cables, causing power outages in several neighborhoods. According to witnesses, the individual acted under the direction of others, claiming that the local Transformation Station (PT) was overloaded.

 Residents claim the man is not an employee of Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), raising concerns about the safety of electrical infrastructure. Residents express outrage, noting that similar situations have occurred before, and call on EDM to adopt effective measures to prevent such incidents.

Vandalism of electrical infrastructure has been a recurring problem in Maputo province. In March 2025, EDM recovered 12 tons of stolen electrical equipment in Matola, including copper cables and radiators, which were intended for sale in South Africa. This type of illegal activity causes significant losses to the company and affects thousands of customers.

In addition to the economic losses, blackouts increase neighborhoods' vulnerability to crime. Residents are calling on EDM and the authorities to strengthen the security of electrical infrastructure and implement preventive measures to avoid future incidents that could jeopardize the safety and well-being of the community.