In a recent joint law enforcement operation, the illegally occupied 44 Lancers Road building in Durban was raided, resulting in the discovery of stolen electricity, reports Berea Mail.

The City said, “Electricity theft is a serious criminal offence that endangers lives, threatens public safety, and damages critical municipal infrastructure. It also places a heavy financial burden on the City, which loses approximately R1.7b in revenue annually due to such illegal activities.

“These losses deprive the municipality of funds needed to maintain and expand essential electrical infrastructure and deliver reliable services to residents. Illegal connections further create a high risk of electrocution and fires, while disrupting supply to paying customers.”

Following the operation, the Electricity and Energy Directorate has initiated the removal of unlawful electrical infrastructure. The dismantling process is underway as part of efforts to safeguard the electricity network, protect public safety, and prevent further illegal activities.

The eThekwini municipality ensured that its Directorate would continue working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify and act against those involved in electricity theft and related offences.

The public are urged to report illegal electricity connections or suspected theft by contacting the Directorate’s Contact Centre on 0803 111 111.

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