Metro cracks down on illegal power connections in Pretoria North
The metro acknowledged that its task is complicated by the need for careful co-ordination with security forces, especially in areas where resistance or conflict could occur during disconnection operations.
The Tshwane metro has pledged to intensify its crackdown on illegal electricity connections in Pretoria North and surrounding areas.
This follows mounting community concerns and previously disconnected households reconnecting illegally.
Ward 2 Councillor Quentin Meyer had raised concerns regarding the illegal connections in Pretoria North and in Wolmer.
Tshwane spokesperson Lindela Mashigo confirmed that illegal connections were recently removed from a property at Petal Street, Dorandia, but supply had mysteriously resumed, suggesting the occupants illegally reconnected themselves.
Mashigo admitted that despite past interventions, illegal reconnections continue to undermine metro efforts.
“Metro records show that illegal connections in Petal Street were removed during an inspection in October last year.
“However, we suspect the occupants have since reconnected themselves. A follow-up operation, with the support of the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD), is being planned to address this and other identified hotspots.”
Mashigo mentioned that other reported addresses are being audited and will be attended to as part of a broader enforcement operation.
For safety reasons, Mashigo declined to disclose the exact dates of upcoming disconnection operations, citing potential threats to personnel during such visits.
Meyer raised concerns about the risks posed by illegal connections, including the threat of electrical fires, system overloads, and damage to infrastructure.
“The continued power supply to these areas not only violates regulations but also presents serious safety hazards to the community,” said Meyer.
The metro acknowledged that its task is complicated by the need for careful co-ordination with security forces, especially in areas where resistance or conflict could occur during disconnection operations.
“Illegal connections are not just a technical problem; they are often linked to poverty, service delivery gaps, and organised cable theft syndicates,” said Mashigo.
He said Tshwane’s energy compliance teams, along with TMPD, typically plan operations well in advance to ensure safety and prevent violence.
Mashigo mentioned that once connections are removed, the metro attempts to secure infrastructure to prevent easy reconnection.
He said the metro is working tirelessly to find permanent resolutions, but could not disclose the specific measures being considered at this stage.
“One approach involves removing unauthorised connections from the furthest point of supply, making it harder for residents to reconnect themselves.”
Residents are encouraged to report illegal electricity use to the city’s Fraud Hotline or email revenueprotection@tshwane.gov.za.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
