Cable theft cripples power supply in wards 2 and 98

Large parts of Ward 98, including Clarina, Nina Park, Dorandia, Tileba, Hestea Park, Winternest, Heatherdale, Eldorette, Klerksoord, and Theresa Park, have been left without electricity after a fire broke out this week.

The fire was sparked by cable theft, according to authorities, which later severely damaged key infrastructure.

According to Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo, the metro’s Theresa Park Secondary Substation in Region 1 suffered vandalism and a cable theft incident on May 1.

“It is unfortunate that this despicable act of thieving and destruction resulted in a fire breakout, which led to a 240mm cable as well as a T4 switching component being burnt inside the substation.

“The regional maintenance team is currently on-site assessing the damage to effect the necessary repairs,” said Mashigo.

Mashigo said the metro is compelled to replace all affected electricity components.

“A transmission team is attending the 132/11kV Wolmer Substation that has tripped as a result of the mentioned plundering incident.

“The restoration time is not yet known. Residents will be kept abreast of developments. The city apologises for the inconvenience caused.”

Community leader Dana Wannenburg said in Clarina, a mini-substation was completely burned out, and it will either need to be repaired or fully replaced.

“Unfortunately, there has been no change in the power outage situation. Many areas, including Montana, Sinoville, Doornpoort, and Annlin, remain without electricity.

“We are still waiting for official feedback from the technical teams and electricity management in Tshwane. There is growing concern that there may be deliberate delays in addressing these widespread outages,” said Wannenburg.

He said he waited at the Theresa Park Substation, but no technical team had arrived.

“The lack of communication and progress is unacceptable.”

Ward councillors and community leaders have raised an alarm over the increasing frequency of cable thefts.

For many households, the outage has meant cold meals, spoiled food, and sleepless nights.

“It’s frustrating. We understand things happen, but the lack of updates makes it worse,” said Dorandia resident, James Mahlangu.

Wannenburg acknowledged the frustration but appealed for patience and vigilance.

“We are on the ground and committed to pushing for urgency and clear communication. Teams are doing everything they can.”

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