Community effort against cable theft in Olievenhoutbosch pays off

While cable theft remains a major problem in Centurion, patrollers in Olievenhoutbosch are making significant progress in combatting this persistent crime.

The Tshwane metro has acknowledged the tireless commitment of the community patrollers, whose work is gradually restoring security and stability in the area.

MMC for Corporate and Shared Services Kholofelo Morodi praised the patrollers, calling them a beacon of hope in the fight against cable theft.

“The city proudly commends the relentless dedication and tireless efforts of the community patrollers of Olievenhoutbosch,” said Morodi.

She highlighted that their unwavering commitment to protecting key infrastructure has significantly reduced cable theft incidents while improving the quality of life for residents.

“Through their actions, they have demonstrated the power of community unity and the profound impact that collective effort can achieve.”

Morodi added that the metro remains committed to supporting the patrollers by providing resources and fostering collaboration to ensure long-term success in safeguarding communities.

“I would like to encourage all residents to join in the collective mission to safeguard our communities from the scourge of cable theft,” she said.

Cable theft has plagued areas like Olievenhoutbosch for years, causing disruptions in essential services such as electricity.

This has not only inconvenienced residents but also posed safety risks.

Ward Councillor Kenneth Masha shared some of the issues that residents faced in the past.

He recounted how one spot near the Symphony Bridge, dubbed the “Symphony hotspot” was targeted almost every second day since 2021.

“Criminals would cut the cables, and as soon as Tshwane replaced them, these criminals would return the very next day,” said Masha.

“There were other hotspots as well, but this one was the easiest place where criminals could steal.”

He said this frustrating cycle would often leave residents in the dark for long periods.

In April 2022, the tide began to turn when volunteers from the community started patrolling the hotspots overnight.

“When that happened, cable theft declined drastically until there wasn’t any at all,” Masha noted.

He noted that the initiative gained momentum as more volunteers, including young people, joined the effort, with the community supporting the patrollers through donations.

However, sustaining the initiative proved to be a challenge.

Contributions from the community started declining, leaving the patrollers struggling to cover basic expenses like petrol.

“A non-profit organisation stepped in to provide stipends for the volunteers, but that support ended in December 2024, leading to a dramatic reduction in patrols.”

Masha revealed that as a result, cable theft incidents surged again in January, with eight reported cases in a single month.

Despite these setbacks, hope was reignited when the Amapanyaza security group began assisting the patrollers earlier this year.

Masha noted that their daily presence has brought a renewed sense of order.

“We’ve seen a decrease again, and they are doing a wonderful job,” Masha said.

He also mentioned that MMC Morodi recently visited the area and promised to organise a meeting with other MMCs to address the patrollers’ challenges and explore sustainable solutions.

He added that community involvement is key to preventing cable theft incidents going forward.

Masha emphasised that locals are well-connected with the area and can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing potential threats.

“When the community is involved, it becomes much harder for criminals to operate. People know their neighbourhoods and can spot suspicious activity quickly.”

The work of the patrollers has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated by the residents of Olievenhoutbosch.

Many have expressed gratitude for their efforts while acknowledging the ongoing challenges.

One resident, Thandeka Mahlangu, said it’s heartbreaking that cable theft is still such a big issue in the area.

“I truly admire the patrollers for their sacrifice. They give up their nights to make sure we can live in peace.”

Another resident, Vusi Dlamini, said the patrollers are doing amazing work.

He believes that more support is needed from the city to help the patrollers.

“If they can get more assistance from the municipality, more work can be done,” he said.

“They can’t do it all on their own.”

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