A 21-year-old man died after being electrocuted in the Emona area of Tongaat yesterday (September 6), reportedly after stepping on live wires linked to an illegal electricity connection.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said the man had been walking in the area when the accident occurred.

MEC for Cogta Thulasizwe Buthelezi extended condolences to the family, calling the death a devastating loss caused by a preventable and illegal practice.

“These connections are a serious threat to human life and safety. It is a tragedy that our province continues to lose innocent lives to this dangerous practice every year,” said Buthelezi.

He urged municipalities across the province to intensify efforts to remove illegal connections and raise public awareness about their dangers.