A 29-year-old Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality security guard died during a shootout between cable thieves and guards yesterday.

The guard had been stationed at the Njala substation in Moreleta Park, east of Pretoria, where cables were stolen.

Regional utilities MMC Themba Fosi says the incident demonstrated how rife cable theft is in the city.

“I would like to extend my condolences to the family and loved ones,” Fosi adds.

The MMC says it is important that the national government prioritises the substations and treat them as national key points.

“The decision will allow for these stations to be safely guarded once they are regarded as the key point and can be able to supply stable electricity to our residents.”

Little is known about the incident in which the guard was killed.

Fosi says he could not divulge all the details as the matter is now being investigated by members of the police.

“The matter is now under the SAPS, who are investigating the matter as to what could have taken place,” he adds.

At this point, it is unclear whether the suspects have been apprehended or are still at large.

The metro issued a statement this morning informing residents of what they called an ‘unplanned’ outage that affected some parts of the eastern areas.

According to the metro, the cable theft from the Njala substation affected these areas:

• Waltloo 1
• Mamelodi (1, 2, 3)
• Wapadrand
• Mooikloof
• Koedoespoort