A 34-year-old Waste collector has been sentenced to five years in prison for unlawfully tampering with electricity infrastructure and stealing components belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The convict, identified as Asimah Delali, alias “Ayigbe,” was found guilty by the Accra Circuit Court, presided over by His Honour Samuel Bright Acquah, on two charges — unlawful interference with an electricity distribution system, contrary to Rule 41(2)(3) of L.I. 1816 (2005), and theft, contrary to Section 124(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Court proceedings indicated that the incident occurred on Saturday, June 8, 2025, when Delali unlawfully entered the garden area of the Africa Trade House, located near Cedi House in Accra’s central business district.
While on the premises, Delali reportedly tampered with an outdoor ECG distribution pillar, from which he removed a metallic door valued at GH¢5,000 and an electrical termination cover. Both components were identified as ECG property. The removal of such parts has reportedly contributed to recent disruptions in electricity supply within sections of the commercial hub.
Delali, who has no fixed place of residence and earns a living collecting discarded items, was apprehended around 11:30 a.m. by Winfred Wayem, Head of Security at the Africa Trade House. Wayem, assisted by witnesses in the vicinity, detained the suspect after he was allegedly found in possession of the stolen items.
The suspect was later handed over to the police. During subsequent interrogation in the presence of an independent witness, Delali is said to have confessed to the offence.
The case was prosecuted by Ama Frema Asante, representing the ECG. She informed the court that Delali’s conduct posed a threat to public infrastructure and was part of a growing trend of thefts affecting the utility provider’s operations.
His Honour Samuel Bright Acquah in delivering the judgment stated that the accused had shown no sign of regret, and warned that the court would not be lenient if he reoffended. Delali was sentenced to five years in prison with no option of a fine.
