Somerset Mall and surrounding industrial customers have been without power for several days due to theft and vandalism, particularly of high-voltage electrical infrastructure.

Eskom has strongly condemned these criminal acts, which have caused extensive damage to the network, resulting in prolonged outages, financial losses and significant inconvenience to businesses and customers.

According to a media statement the power-supply giant’s technical teams are working tirelessly to repair the damaged infrastructure and indicated power was expected to be restored by 18:00 today (Wednesday 15 July). Meanwhile Somerset Mall has remained fully operational by using its back-up generator systems, ensuring minimal disruption to retailers, restaurants and services.

As a temporary measure the mall’s air-conditioning system has been adjusted to fresh-air circulation only, optimising generator capacity while maintaining a comfortable environment for shoppers and staff. Mall management has expressed gratitude to tenants, customers and staff for their patience and understanding during this period.

Eskom has intensified its anti-crime campaign, Hands Off!, launched in 2024, to combat theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure. The campaign encourages the public to report suspicious activities and supports investigations and arrests linked to these crimes. Eskom has reiterated that such acts undermine economic activity, disrupt service delivery and negatively impact communities.

Members of the public are urged to report incidents by contacting the Eskom Toll-Free Crime Hotline at 0800 11 27 22 or their local police. Callers may remain anonymous.

Somerset Mall management has assured customers that the centre will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary. They also acknowledged the efforts of Eskom’s repair teams in working to restore the electricity supply as quickly and safely as possible.