11/03/2026
PRESS STATEMENT
(For Immediate Release)
LUSAKA CITY COUNCIL WARNS OF STIFF JAIL TERMS FOR STREET LIGHT VANDALISM
The Lusaka City Council (LCC) would like to caution individuals involved in vandalism and theft of batteries and solar panels from street lights, as the vice is a serious threat to public safety and national development.
Several areas across the city have been affected by the illegal activities, including Kamloops Road, Munali Stretch, Nangwenya Road, Independence Avenue, Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Great East Road and State Lodge Road, among others.
LCC Senior Electrical Engineer, Ms. Judith Matsika has expressed concern over the increasing cases of vandalism and theft targeting street lighting infrastructure, stating that the acts are undermining Government’s efforts to improve road safety and service delivery.
“Vandalism and theft of solar panels and batteries from street lights is a serious offence that directly affects the safety of motorists and pedestrians, while also frustrating Government’s efforts to modernise and illuminate the city,” Eng. Matsika said.
She warned that the Council will not hesitate to take legal action against individuals found vandalizing public infrastructure, stressing that vandalism and theft of Government property is a criminal offence punishable under the laws of Zambia.
Eng. Matsika explained that under Section 341D of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia, any person who willfully and unlawfully damages, destroys or interferes with public infrastructure commits an offence and is liable, upon conviction, to imprisonment for a term of not less than ten (10) years and not exceeding twenty-five (25) years.
She further noted that Government is investing substantial resources in installing and maintaining street lights across the city, and called on members of the public to take an active role in safeguarding public infrastructure.
“These facilities are installed using public resources for the benefit of all residents. It is therefore the responsibility of every citizen to protect them and report any suspicious activities,” she said.
Eng Matsika added that the Council’s Electrical Section is working on measures aimed at intensifying monitoring and patrols in affected and other areas to curb the vice and ensure that vandalism levels do not escalate.
The Lusaka City Council has since appealed to members of the public to work with law enforcement agencies by reporting any acts of vandalism or suspicious activities around street lighting infrastructure.
Issued By:
Public Relations Unit
Lusaka City Council join - LCC
11/03/2026