City Power has confirmed the arrest of three contractor employees following a live intelligence-led operation in Beverley Gardens, Randburg. The suspects were apprehended after allegedly interfering with critical electricity infrastructure at the corner of Roos and Geduld streets.

Acting on a tip-off, City Power security officials found the contractors conducting a cable fault repair that had been authorised for an excavation of about 20m. Investigations revealed that the excavation had been extended to about 50m without approval and that an underground cable had allegedly been uncovered and removed without authorisation.

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Isaac Mangena, spokesperson of City Power, explained that further investigations confirmed that neither the team leader nor management had approved the removal or storage of the cable.

“The material was allegedly taken to a storage facility instead of an approved salvage yard. Approximately 20m of 120mm aluminium cable was recovered and secured as evidence. The suspects were arrested on site, handed over to law enforcement and remain in custody pending criminal proceedings.”

He added that the arrests form part of City Power’s intensified campaign against electricity theft, infrastructure sabotage and non-technical losses, which continue to undermine the utility’s financial sustainability and operational performance.

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“The incident highlights a growing trend of individuals within legitimate service delivery structures abusing authorised access to commit infrastructure-related offences.”

Customers are urged to report suspicious activity near electricity infrastructure to security and risk management on 011 490 7900, 011 490 7911 or 011 490 7553, or anonymously via WhatsApp on 083 579 4497.

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