Uganda: Copper Theft On the Rise

17 August 2007

Kampala — THE theft of copper wires has become rampant in the country, leading to electricity blackouts, telephone outage, ATM breakdown, drought and increased bills. The thieves are part of an organised racket responsible for stealing and exporting copper wires and water meters, according to security organisations. Their actions are motivated by increases in international copper prices.

Some of the power blackouts that ordinary citizens mistake for load shedding are a result of copper wire theft, says Said Balaba, Umeme's Copper Supplies Manager.

...

AllAfrica publishes around 400 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.