Vodacom tackles theft at base stations
The theft of diesel, power cables and batteries can cut off hundreds if not thousands of people from communication.
MBOMBELA – Vodacom has upped the fight against the theft at base station sites, which causes millions of rand worth of damage each year.
Vodacom Mpumalang’s base stations are increasingly being targeted by theft and vandalism, which can leave entire communities without communication.
Vodacom is implementing new measures to make sure that the thieves are caught and prosecuted.
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The company has also partnered with members of the community to stem the tide of vandalism at its base stations.
Cellular base stations are the only form of connectivity available to many communities, and when criminals target these base stations to steal diesel, power cables and batteries, they can cut off hundreds if not thousands of people.
“We repeatedly see situations where people cannot make emergency calls and are put in danger by these criminals. Sooner or later these criminals will cost someone’s life,” said Zakhele Jiyane, managing executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga region.
Each theft incident can result in the network in that area being down for days, and can severely impact businesses as well as anyone relying on the internet to study.
“We appeal to members of the community to report this form of crime to police,” Jiyane said.
The public can phone their toll-free number 082-241-9952 or SAPS on 10111.
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