The theft of transformers supplying around 40 runway lights at Lichinga Airport has forced the suspension of night flights, causing losses of 20.5 million meticais, the management of Aeroportos de Moçambique (AdM) said on Wednesday.
Saíde Mahoma Júnior, the public company’s executive administrator responsible for Administration and Finance, explained that the theft at the airport in Niassa province, northern Mozambique, had compromised the operation of the runway lighting, also affecting landings in conditions of poor visibility.
“This is serious, very serious. Night flights to Lichinga will be suspended immediately,” he told journalists, adding that losses associated with repeated acts of vandalism, including the theft of transformers and destruction of lights, amount to 20.5 million meticais (€287,300).
Niassa State Secretary Silva Livone also condemned the acts of vandalism and warned that the authorities would take firm action against those responsible, saying the damage affected an important public infrastructure facility for the province’s economic and tourism activities.
“We will not feel sorry for anyone. We will act very seriously, because the airport is public infrastructure,” Silva Livone said, defending the protection of airport facilities and the accountability of those responsible for the acts.
The Niassa State Secretary pointed out that the government was working to increase flight frequency to Lichinga and install an aircraft refuelling facility at the airport, considering that the acts of vandalism were undermining efforts to develop air connections and promote tourism in Niassa.
