The Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) has said its confidential whistleblower platform is proving to be an effective tool in curbing vandalism and electricity theft, after two suspects were arrested in separate incidents in Dar es Salaam.
The arrests, made in Madale kwa Kawawa and Tegeta kwa Ndevu, followed tip-offs from citizens who reported suspicious activities involving power infrastructure.
TANESCO Security Officer Lilian William said one of the reports alerted officials to damage at a house in Madale, where a power pole had been cut and a Bahdela meter illegally removed.
“Upon investigation, we discovered that the person responsible was a casual worker contracted under a group arrangement. The whistleblower’s information enabled us to intervene promptly and protect public resources,” she explained.
The suspect, identified as Ally Salehe, admitted to the offense, saying it stemmed from a family dispute.
Police later recovered additional TANESCO equipment unlawfully kept at his residence, including a meter, clamps, cables, and customer interface devices.
In Tegeta kwa Ndevu, another inspection revealed three meters that had been illegally relocated. Police detained the tenant of the premises, Baraka Koyoyo, for further questioning.
TANESCO has urged the public to continue using the whistleblower system, assuring that the platform is safe, simple, and confidential.
The company noted that criminal activities such as meter tampering and equipment theft not only erode its revenues but also slow down national development.
“We will continue working closely with law enforcement to ensure offenders face strict legal consequences. Strengthening the whistleblower system will safeguard electricity infrastructure and promote economic progress,” TANESCO said in a statement.