Eskom responds to power concerns and accusations in the Zandspruit area
Eskom has responded to concerns raised over illegal electricity connections in Zandspruit, confirming the area is aware of the problem and outlining plans for future electrification.
Eskom has responded to concerns raised in an earlier Randburg Sun article on illegal electricity connections in Zandspruit, confirming that the utility is aware of the problem and is setting out its plans to address it.
The initial report followed a door-to-door visit in the area, during which ActionSA’s Sello Mabelebele identified illegal connections, known locally as izinyoka nyoka, and warned that such wiring could lead to fires or fatalities.
Read more: Zandspruit residents raise Eskom, water issues
Ward 114 councillor David Mangena also responded at the time, saying the ward had been pushing Eskom to install proper electricity in the area, but that progress had been slow. He also accused the utility of failing residents at facilities such as the Zandspruit Clinic and Masakhane Primary School, both without electricity for more than thirteen years.
Responding to questions from the Randburg Sun, Eskom spokesperson Amanda Qithi confirmed that the utility is aware of the illegal connections in the area. She said Eskom conducts regular audits of its network and infrastructure across all its supply areas, which includes disconnecting customers found to have tampered illegally with the network.
Where illegal connections are identified, Qithi said Eskom works with law enforcement agencies to remove them, along with any illegally installed transformers.
On the safety risks, Qithi said illegal connections have resulted in injuries and, in some cases, deaths, particularly among young children. She said Eskom runs ongoing awareness and training campaigns to educate customers on the dangers involved, and encourages anyone who sees illegal connections being made to report it.
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Regarding electrification, Qithi said Zandspruit extensions 84, 85, and 86 are included in Eskom’s electrification plan. However, she said the area is densely populated, and the municipality is currently working on resettlement to free up space for electricity infrastructure before formal electrification can begin.
Residents who witness illegal connections or tampering with Eskom infrastructure are urged to report it via the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 11 22 27, or via WhatsApp on 081 333 3323.
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