New alarm to halt Van Riebeeck Substation cable theft in Ward 2

The Van Riebeeck Substation in Pretoria North has been secured with a state-of-the-art alarm system in a move to clamp down on cable theft, break-ins and prevent further power outages.

The substation, which has suffered multiple break-ins over the past few months, most recently on June 30, has been a persistent target for cable thieves, often leaving parts of the community without power for days.

These thefts have not only disrupted essential services but also resulted in financial losses for businesses and residents alike.

“This is a game-changer. Cable theft has caused major damage and power outages, but that’s about to change.

“No more cable theft at this substation. Criminals, be warned, we are taking back our community,” said Ward 2 councillor Quintin Meyer.

The success of the initiative is rooted in a unique partnership between community members, the local ward councillor, and private security experts, with community activist Karen Yssel playing a pivotal role.

“I was motivated to act after residents were informed of yet another attempted break-in at the substation on June 30,” explained Yssel.

“I then decided to assist Maximum Security in getting the necessary authorisation from the Tshwane metro to install an alarm system free of charge. It’s a proactive step that could save the metro millions in infrastructure damage.”

According to Yssel, the process moved quickly thanks to co-operation from the municipality.

“We received initial authorisation within 24 hours. It took another 14 days to complete the paperwork, and the alarm installation was finalised on July 17,” she said.

The system, donated and installed by Maximum Security, is no ordinary setup.

It includes an advanced wireless security system, infrared passive sensors, door sensors, and outdoor perimeter beams, all linked to a 24/7 control room.

This ensures early detection and immediate response before any damage occurs.

Nicky Smit of Maximum Security said their response team aims to be on-site within minutes of an alarm trigger.

“Once a breach is detected, an armed response unit is dispatched immediately. Depending on the situation, we escalate to Tshwane Metro Police or SAPS, with whom we maintain a strong working relationship.”

The monitoring is continuous, with trained operators and responders dedicated to the site.

Yssel believes this is the model for future projects, and the effort is about more than just technology.

“It’s a shining example of what community collaboration can achieve when residents, businesses, and government pull together.

“We can no longer rely solely on SAPS or municipal officials to protect our infrastructure. Residents suffer the most when infrastructure is vandalised.
“We all need to take responsibility. That’s why I’m urging all residents to join the Pretoria North CPF and play a more active role in safeguarding our community.”

According to Yssel, her next initiative will involve working closely with the Pretoria North CPF to extend similar protection to other vulnerable substations and infrastructure across the region.

Maximum Security has also indicated that they are involved in ongoing partnerships with local wards, including WhatsApp group collaborations, sector radio communication, and integration with CCTV systems.

“These efforts help residents report suspicious activity in real-time and improve our surveillance coverage dramatically,” said Smit.

Meyer praised all those involved and advocated for unity among stakeholders.

“I want to thank Maximum Security for their incredible sponsorship and Karen Yssel for her unwavering commitment to the community. I also want to acknowledge every resident who stood by us.

“This is a big step forward in the fight for a safer, brighter Ward 2. One step at a time, we are moving forward.”

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