Mogale City under attack by copper thieves
MCLM addresses recent infrastructure vandalism and is attempting to counter it.
After numerous incidents of cable theft were reported these last few weeks, Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) acknowledged the matter and said the issue is considered an act of vandalism.
• Also read: Four suspected copper thieves busted in Muldersdrift
The Krugersdorp News reported how residents of Agavia, Heritage Manor and Oatlands, among others, were left without power following another act of vandalism along Van Riebeeck Road.
According to MCLM communications officer Refilwe Mahlangu, they are giving the matter urgent attention.
While robust security measures introduced on March 20 have successfully safeguarded the Batavia substation itself, criminals are now targeting external infrastructure – particularly the copper cables that feed into the substation,” she explained.
She continued that Mogale’s Energy Services is working on strategies to counter this new pattern of vandalism and is asking residents for their continued patience. The public is also encouraged to report any suspicious activity or damage to infrastructure to both the MCLM and law enforcement authorities (MCLM call centre: 086 166 4253).
“Due to the repeated nature of these attacks, the municipality is struggling to maintain adequate supplies of replacement materials. Current stock has been exhausted, and while a rush order has been placed, no timeline for restoring power can be confirmed until new supplies arrive,” Mahlangu said.
Krugersdorp Police Station commander Brigadier Happy Xaba was approached for comment on the matter, however, none was received at the time of print. His feedback will be published once received.
