Scrap metal thieves target Eskom pylons
Scrap metal thieves have aimed their sights on Eskom infrastructure by stripping off parts on the utility's pylons in Aerorand.
DA Ward Councillor, Hennie Niemann, told the Middelburg Observer that residents reported the theft of support beams on the main 88 KV powerline that supplies electricity to the Aerorand substation.
The powerlines are situated along the Tarries MTB course which has recently fallen into the hands of vagrants seeking shelter in its sub wooded areas, who residents believe are behind a spate of armed robberies and attacks on cyclists.
Cllr. Niemann confirmed that the vandalism has been reported to the Department of Electricity, who in turn escalated the matter to Eskom.
“The theft fortunately has not affected electricity supply to Aerorand, but there’s a risk that these acts of vandalism could compromise the structural integrity of the pylons, resulting in them collapsing as was seen in Pretoria.”
Cllr. Niemann appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
@middelburgobserver An Eskom pylon in Aerorand was vandalised by scrap metal thieves, who stripped the structure of it’s support beams. DA Councillor Hennie Niemann explains the situation to residents. #Middelburg #Tarries #vandalism #theft #Eskom #Eskompylons
