An unidentified man was fatally electrocuted on Centlec infrastructure in Phase 6 in Bloemfontein. According to preliminary findings, the man was electrocuted while, allegedly, attempting to steal a high-voltage overhead line cable at around 01:50 on Thursday 9 April.
Tseliso Leba, acting spokesperson for Centlec, said police members and security services of the entity who responded to the theft incident found the suspected cable thief unresponsive at the crime scene. He said the search was ongoing for the second suspect, who fled from the crime scene.
“Police and Armed Response received a tip-off regarding individuals allegedly stealing overhead electrical lines. Upon their arrival, they encountered two suspects believed to be involved in the theft of overhead line infrastructure. One suspect managed to flee on foot upon seeing law enforcers. Further investigation is ongoing,” said Leba.
He said law enforcement agents seized a shovel and a pair of gloves believed to have been used in the commission of the crime. Leba said equipment discovered at the crime scene form part of the evidence.
“Centlec strongly condemns acts of cable theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure, which continue to pose a serious threat to the stability of electricity supply in Mangaung. Criminal activities not only disrupt power supply to homes, businesses, and essential services, but also place lives at risk. It additionally costs the utility millions of rands in repairs and replacement of stolen infrastructure,” said Leba.
He urged the public to report any theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure to the nearest police station and Centlec’s channels.
