BOTHAVILLE – A surge in cable theft and the vandalism of underground infrastructure is disrupting essential services in Bothaville, prompting renewed calls for stronger law enforcement and greater community vigilance.

Residents and businesses have increasingly been affected by the theft of underground cables, with repeated incidents causing interruptions to communication networks and adding to the cost of maintaining public infrastructure.

Criminals have been digging up sidewalks and public spaces to gain access to underground cables, leaving behind damaged pavements, open trenches and safety hazards. The destruction not only affects the appearance of public spaces but also places additional financial pressure on service providers, who are forced to replace stolen cables and repair damaged infrastructure.

The growing problem has raised concerns about the impact on service delivery, as repeated repairs divert resources that could otherwise be used to improve infrastructure and municipal services.

A growing problem

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nala Local Municipality has announced that it intends engaging the Bothaville South African Police Service (SAPS) to request increased patrols and targeted enforcement operations aimed at tackling cable theft in the town.

According to DA councillor Mahalia Kose, the continued theft of cables is depriving residents of reliable services and undermining efforts to improve the quality of life in the community.

She called on law enforcement agencies to intensify investigations into organised cable theft syndicates and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. She also appealed to service providers, the Nala Local Municipality and other stakeholders to strengthen security around critical infrastructure to prevent further incidents.

Residents are being urged to remain alert and report suspicious activity, particularly individuals digging trenches, tampering with underground infrastructure or transporting suspected stolen cables.

Community members are encouraged to report suspicious behaviour to SAPS immediately, as public cooperation is regarded as a key element in combating infrastructure-related crime.

Cable theft has become an ongoing challenge in many communities across South Africa, with municipalities and service providers facing mounting repair costs and repeated service interruptions. Beyond the immediate inconvenience to residents, the destruction of infrastructure delays maintenance programmes and places additional strain on already limited public resources.

Local leaders say protecting essential infrastructure will require a coordinated effort involving residents, law enforcement agencies, the municipality and service providers to safeguard the services on which the community depends.

ALSO READ: A truck impounded and millions of rands copper seized by police