WESSELTON – Residents of Steve Biko informal settlement were left frustrated after Msukaligwa Local Municipality (MLM) technicians removed illegal connections in the area on August 11.

The technicians were accompanied by Ermelo police members.

After having their illegal cables removed, the angry residents blamed MLM for allegedly promising to legally supply electricity to the area.

According to the bylaws on electricity published on the MLM website, no person other than a person specifically authorised thereto by the service provider in writing shall directly or indirectly connect, attempt to connect, cause or permit to be connected any electrical installation or part thereof to the supply mains or service connection as this constitutes to a criminal offence.

Ironically, the furious residents also alleged that police members focus more on cutting off illegal connections than to responding fast to crimes which are reported.

One resident said that she has been living in the area since 2016, but is still without electricity.

“The crime rate is going to be worse. Now we stand more chances of being victims of rape and assault, criminals will target us because they know that we are without electricity. It is not safe for us here.”

Read complete article in Highvelder newspaper.