By Staff Reporter
MARIVENI VILLAGE – Two men suspected of attempting to steal borehole cables at Zivuko School were attacked by an angry mob in Mariveni Village on the night of 25 November.
According to community members, the pair was allegedly caught in the act before residents confronted them.
One of the suspects managed to escape, while the second was overpowered by the crowd and assaulted before being handed over to authorities. Police are expected to confirm the extent of the injuries and whether arrests have been made.
Residents say cable theft has become a weekly ordeal in Mariveni, affecting both water supply and electricity, as borehole pumps and electrical lines are repeatedly targeted. Many community members expressed frustration, saying they feel their concerns have gone unanswered after numerous incidents.
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said the community had reached its breaking point.
“Criminals must be dealt with decisively. There is no hope in the justice system at the Ritavi Magistrate Court because people with money or connections get bail easily, even for serious crimes,” the resident claimed.
Community leaders have urged authorities to strengthen security around public infrastructure and to respond more swiftly to cable theft cases, warning that continued incidents may lead to further tensions.
Police investigations into the matter are continuing.
