ZWELETEMBA – As Zweletans grapple with the inconvenience of load shedding, a group colloquially known as “Amaphara” has seized the opportunity to wreak havoc on the community. Their activities primarily involve the theft of vital electrical cables, during the 10:00 slot, leaving the location disrupted and in despair.
One of the victims of this insidious crime wave is Sindiswa Fudumele, a resident of Zweletemba. Fudumele, like many others, has been left to contend with the harsh realities of life without electricity.
“I reported the incident to the ward councillor who in turn logged a complaint to Breede Valley Municipality (BVM), who came and re-installed the cable after two days. But the two days without electricity made my life difficult as I’m dependent on electricity.”
Now local residents, in collaboration with the Zweletemba Neighbourhood Watch, are actively working to curtail this rampant criminal activity.
Religious leader Manice Xhashimba expressed his deep concern over the situation, calling on the community on social media to act and vowing to take decisive action against those responsible.
“We will not tolerate these acts of sabotage against our community. The livelihoods of our residents are at stake, and we are committed to putting an end to this menace,” said Xhashimba.
Community leaders are urging residents to help street committees to combat crime, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the local authorities.
“We must stand together as a community to combat this menace. Our collective efforts can make a significant difference in apprehending those responsible and safeguarding our location,” emphasized CPF Chairperson, Vusumzi Mondli.
As Zweletemba grapples with the dual challenges of load shedding and cable theft, its councillors are determined to reclaim their peace. “Though this has started in my ward, at the end of the day it involves the entire location,” said Ward 17 Councillor, Ntombi Sibhozo.
In response to the surge in cable theft incidents, BVM acknowledges the gravity of the situation, particularly in the Zweletemba area.
“While exact details of these incidents are still being compiled, we are actively taking measures to combat this issue. Despite efforts, it is acknowledged that complete physical protection of all infrastructure is unfeasible.
“The financial and operational burden caused by theft and vandalism is substantial, impacting both BVM and taxpayers. A meeting with various stakeholders is scheduled to devise a collective strategy against this crime. BVM emphasizes that meter tampering, cable theft and related acts are illegal and urges the public to report any such activities.”
