Residents help police nab telecoms vandalism suspect

Community members in Okomumbonde in the Otjinene constituency have been praised after tracking a suspect for nearly 28 km to help police arrest a man linked to the vandalism and theft of MTC network equipment.

Telecoms company MTC said five residents organised a search party and tracked the suspect for almost 28 km, which led to the discovery of the suspect's hideout. They alerted the police, who carried out the arrest.

The incident followed the discovery of vandalised equipment at an MTC network site in the area, which is believed to have been stolen and intended for resale as scrap metal.

MTC said the case highlights both the growing problem of infrastructure vandalism and the importance of community involvement in protecting essential services.

Tim Ekandjo, MTC’s chief brand, marketing, communications and sustainability officer, said vandalism and theft had wider consequences beyond financial loss, including disruption to communication systems used for emergencies, business and daily connectivity.

“In some cases, these criminal acts disrupt service delivery to entire communities. While this infrastructure belongs to MTC, it ultimately exists to serve the public by keeping communities connected."

Ekandjo praised the Okomumbonde residents for what he described as a strong example of community policing and urged other communities to remain vigilant in protecting telecommunications infrastructure.