A KITWE man got more than he bargained for when his ill-fated attempt to tamper with a Zesco transformer turned into a fiery ordeal turning him to human barbeque.
Rodgers Musawa, a 29-year-old resident of Mindolo township, now finds himself nursing severe burns in the hospital, courtesy of the very transformer he sought to vandalize.
Last Friday, as the rest of the country slept soundly, while soccer fans anticipated for the begining of the Africa Cup of Nations Knockout stages, Musawa decided to embark on a covert mission around 01:00 hours.
His target: a Zesco transformer situated in Buchi Township, belonging to the local neighborhood.
However, fate took a shocking turn as the high voltage power coursing through the transformer thwarted Musawa’s intentions.
Before he could make a single incision into the cables, the transformer’s electric wrath transformed him into a human litmus paper, sporting hues of blue and black.
The desperate struggle for survival triggered Musawa’s cries for help, was combined with sorrow of Chipolopolo’s Wednesday loss and hit a first tenor scream, alerting vigilant community members who rushed to his aid.
Elias Kaunda of Buchi Township not only played a role in saving Musawa’s life but also took the responsible step of reporting the incident of both electrocution and attempted vandalism to the police.
Copperbelt Police Commanding Officer, Peacewell Mweemba, confirmed the incident, stating that upon receiving the report, law enforcement swiftly arrived at the scene.
Musawa’s entire body bore the scars of burnt injuries, leading to his urgent transfer to Kitwe Teaching Hospital for medical attention.
Once discharged, Musawa will find himself facing the consequences of his ill-conceived actions, as he is expected to be taken into police custody to answer for the selfish act and offenses committed.
Credit: Picture for illustration
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba January 29, 2023
