“Illegal electricity connections cost power supply companies like Eskom and City Power millions of rand in stolen electricity, as well as human lives,” said Captain Solomon Sibiya, Kagiso Police’s spokesperson.
He explained that illegal connections are a serious and punishable crime, especially when it has such a negative impact on the country’s infrastructure development.
On Tuesday, 20 October, City Power, Metro Police, Kagiso Police, West Rand District Police and Public Order Policing conducted a joint operation that focused on eliminating illegal connections in Leratong Village near Tshepisong.
The operation targeted the points where the original illegal connections had been made, such as the electricity poles from which most shacks get their illegal supply.
Some cables were disconnected from the original transformers, whereas some were pulled from underneath the ground,” said Sibiya.
About six tons of electricity cables with an estimated value of R2 million were seized during the operation.
“No one was arrested, and similar operations will be executed more often in the area. The two electricity suppliers will monitor the response to today’s operation,” Sibiya said, adding that the Kagiso Police were appealing to the public to report anyone who tampers or reconnects the illegal supply.
Use the free Crime Stop line on 08600 10111, or phone the nearest police station. You can also provide information using the SMS line on 32211; alternatively use the My SAPS app and remain anonymous.
