The AbaQulusi Local Municipality says criminal cases opened in connection with electricity infrastructure sabotage and cable theft have failed to result in convictions.

Cases opened but no convictions secured

According to the municipality, senior managers within the Electricity Department opened criminal cases with the South African Police Service to hold those responsible accountable and protect critical electricity infrastructure.

Although suspects were arrested, the municipality said the cases were struck off the court roll because there was insufficient evidence to secure convictions.

Municipality outlines investigation findings

The municipality stated that investigations identified a number of individuals and groups allegedly linked to the theft of municipal infrastructure. According to the response, these included scrap metal dealers allegedly found in possession of stolen copper, foreign nationals allegedly found with copper linked to municipal infrastructure, and a former police officer.

The municipality did not indicate that any of these individuals had been convicted.

Plans to strengthen future prosecutions

To improve future prosecutions, the municipality said it intends strengthening cooperation between the police, municipal officials and prosecutors. It also plans to improve evidence gathering, tighten regulation of the scrap metal trade and continue monitoring individuals believed to have insider knowledge of municipal operations.

The municipality said vandalism and cable theft remain among the biggest threats to maintaining a reliable electricity supply.

Editor’s note

This article is based on a formal written response issued by the AbaQulusi Local Municipality to a petition submitted by residents and business owners. The municipality’s statements have been reported as contained in the response.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.