City Power’s cut-off operation targeting illegal electricity connections in Alexandra resulted in the removal of 15 000kg of aerial bundle conductor cables with an estimated value of R2.5m. The disconnection drive was conducted on July 2 in Mahauzana area in Riverpark, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, Tactical Security Services, and Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens.

According to the utility’s general manager in the department of public relations and communication Isaac Mangena, the operation was responding to long-standing issue of illegal connections that have strained the utility’s network.

Read more: City Power disconnects flats in Riverpark

“Overloaded systems have recently led to the explosion of two mini substations, further disrupting supply to formal households and raising safety concerns across Mahauzana and highlighting the inconvenience to paying customers. This operation was addressing these challenges by alleviating the current strain on the network.”

Although residents acknowledged the challenges posed by illegal connections, they stressed that they cannot be expected to face the cold winter nights without electricity. Furious residents, including Nancy Ramashala said they do not have a problem with paying for electricity. They threatened that without formal access to electricity, they will continue tapping illegally into the grid.

The operation also highlighted the divisions within the community. While some residents were livid because they believe they are plunged into indefinite darkness, other paying customers close to the area who are frequently affected by outages lauded City Power’s disconnection drive. One resident, Moirah Mahlase said they will now purchase electricity with opened hearts knowing that there are no more illegal connections.

As the utility fights to ensure the safety and stability of their electricity network, Mangena stressed that they will do what is necessary to prevent and address illegal connections. City Power vowed to find solutions through collaboration with the Gauteng Provincial Government’s Department of Human Settlements and Infrastructure, since community members in the area have illegally occupied those buildings which were part of a Gauteng Provincial Government project that was left unfinished.

“We will continue to work with the department to find a solution to this issue and ensure that the community has access to safe and reliable electricity,” Mangena shared.

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