A suspect has been caught by City Power security teams, along with their local security partner SB Security, inside the transformer substation (TSS) on Montrose Avenue vandalising the electrical infrastructure.

City Power technical teams were dispatched, following reports of an outage affecting power supply to customers in Montrose Avenue. Teams initially inspected multiple substations, but, upon arrival, the team found the TSS barricaded. When opened, a suspect was discovered, still actively vandalising the electrical infrastructure inside. They were arrested and taken into custody by Honeydew police. Power supply to affected customers and businesses was fully restored, after replacement materials had been sourced and repairs completed.

Read more: Bryanston thief found guilty

“The perpetrator removed valuable components from the chamber,” Isaac Mangena, City Power spokesperson, said, “including circuit breakers and low-voltage (LV) busbars, LV jumpers, and other critical electrical infrastructure.”

He said that such incidents of theft and vandalism place a substantial financial burden on City Power. “The cost of replacing a single TSS unit alone can range from approximately R691 297.20 to R793 365.86 for 314kVA–500kVA units, and from R821 605.91 to R946 866.87 for 630kVA–1000kVA units. These costs strain the entity’s resources and divert funds from essential network maintenance and upgrades.”

Also read: Suspected Fontainebleau car thief arrested

Due to the network configuration and the extent of the damage caused by the vandalism, the team could not implement a temporary supply in this instance. Customers remained without power until the necessary replacement and full repair of the vandalised TSS could be safely completed. The entity urges customers to remain vigilant regarding the safety of electrical infrastructure in their communities. “TSS’s contain high-voltage equipment and should never be approached or tampered with, as this poses serious risk of electrocution, fire, or explosion.”

Customers are encouraged to report any suspicious activity, damaged fencing, open substation doors, or unauthorised persons near electrical infrastructure to City Power’s risk and security management department immediately. They are encouraged to call the security risk management control room on 011 490 7900/7911/7553 or via WhatsApp 083 579 4497.

“By working together with law enforcement and the community, customers can help protect critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of all. We encourage customers to treat all electrical equipment as live and dangerous.”

Mangena added that City Power remains fully committed to reliable service delivery and thanks customers for their patience and understanding during this period. “We continue to work closely with the community, local councillors, and law enforcement to prevent such criminal acts and to restore supply as quickly as possible when they occur. City Power remains committed to improving service delivery and appreciates the patience and understanding displayed by customers during this period.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!