An increase in incidents of electricity infrastructure vandalism has been reported in the Helderberg and Atlantis.
In a statement, the City of Cape Town said these brazen acts remain a challenge despite an overall decrease in incidents according to the latest data. In April incidents of vandalism and theft included damage to street lights and high-voltage overhead lines with repair and replacement costs estimated at R2,4 million.
“Through its enforcement agencies, the City and the Metal Theft Unit (MTU) continues to do everything possible within its mandate to address theft and vandalism of infrastructure,” the statement read. “In the first three months of this year the MTU arrested 54 suspects, issued just over 2 000 fines, recovered hundreds of kilograms of infrastructure belonging to the City, Eskom, Telkom and other entities. In addition, they conducted 561 inspections at scrapyards, during which they issued 95 warning notices and closed 29 facilities.”
Council thanked communities for reporting incidents of vandalism.
“In April, the City’s Electricity Generation and Distribution Department continued to record incidents of infrastructure vandalism across the city,” explained Beverley van Reenen, Mayco Member for Energy. “Atlantis, including Mamre, and Helderberg regions have seen a slight increase in incidents. Our teams have seen a drop in incidents in the other hot spot areas such as the Vanguard region.
“This is a positive trend and we thank residents for doing their part, being vigilant and for reporting these incidents to us.”
To report damage to municipal electrical infrastructure, send an SMS to 31220 or an email to power@capetown.gov.za. Residents can give anonymous tip-offs of other illegal activities, such as illegal connections or unlawful occupations, by calling 112 from a cellphone (toll-free) and 107 from a landline, or 021 480 7700 for emergencies.
