How does vandalism on City Power’s infrastructure affect the City of Gold?
Unsecured mini-substations are more than just a financial burden; they're a public safety crisis across the City of Johannesburg.
Unsecured mini-substations (MSS) are becoming a growing concern for City Power, posing significant risks not only to the utility’s operations but also to public safety. These vulnerable units are frequent targets for tampering, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities for cable thieves and vandals.
Isaac Mangena, spokesperson for City Power, highlighted the dire consequences of these incidents. “When tampering occurs, it leads to widespread and prolonged power outages, disrupting communities and essential services,” he stated. The financial implications for City Power are staggering, with the utility spending over R200m annually to replace vandalised MSS units, transformer substations, and other critical electrical equipment across Johannesburg. “These funds could be better utilised for upgrading and maintaining existing infrastructure, but instead, they are diverted to emergency repairs and replacements.”
Read more: Outage alert: Power interruption at Roosevelt Park substation
The impact of infrastructure sabotage is evident, particularly in the Hursthill service delivery centre (SDC) area, where 33 MSS units have been replaced since April 2024 alone.
Unsecured MSS units not only lead to financial losses but also present serious public safety hazards. These substations are often targeted for their valuable components, such as copper cables, which are highly sought after in illicit markets. Unauthorised individuals frequently gain access to these units, leading to equipment damage, power outages, and costly repairs. “The potential for electrocution or other life-threatening injuries is a severe concern,” Mangena warned.
In response to these challenges, City Power has implemented a range of security measures to protect its electrical infrastructure. “We prioritise the safety and security of our electrical infrastructure across Johannesburg,” Mangena emphasised. Measures include physically securing MSS units with locks and reinforced steel enclosures to prevent unauthorised access.
City Power’s security and risk management department conducts routine patrols to monitor and protect key infrastructure. Additionally, partnerships with private security firms and local neighbourhood watch groups have been established to actively report exposed or compromised infrastructure. Community involvement is crucial, as local councillors and residents often alert City Power to issues such as missing doors on mini substations. “Once reported, our teams act swiftly to replace and secure the equipment to minimise the risk of tampering, theft, or harm to the public,” Mangena explained.
City Power encourages continued community collaboration in the fight against infrastructure sabotage. “By working together, we can help protect essential services and ensure the safety and reliability of Johannesburg’s power supply,” Mangena stated. He urged residents to remain vigilant, as these crimes not only disrupt power supply; they put lives at risk and strain vital resources.
Ward 98 councillor Beverley Jacobs stated, in her ward there has been a documented history of vandalism and theft targeting these vulnerable units. “With each MSS, valued between R500 000 and R750 000, the financial loss to the city is substantial. Beyond the economic impact, these open substations are easily accessible to criminals and also pose a severe safety hazard to residents, particularly children who may unknowingly come into contact with exposed electrical components. The risk of electrocution, serious injury, or even death cannot be overstated.”
Jacobs said that she has written directly to the City Power’s Hursthill depot, highlighting the critical safety and infrastructure risks. “I am following up persistently to ensure immediate action is taken, and will not hesitate to escalate further should there be continued delays. The safety of residents and protection of essential infrastructure remains a non-negotiable priority.”
Residents can report suspicious activity anonymously through the following channels:
– Landline: 011 490 7900
– Toll-free: 0800 116 166
– WhatsApp Tip-Off Line: 083 579 4497
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