POLOKWANE – Polokwane Municipality has come out strongly against a wave of vandalism and theft targeting essential road traffic infrastructure, after the incidents took place under cover of darkness in several parts of the city.

The damage included:

• Four stop signs vandalised;
• One stop sign stolen;
• Four traffic light poles vandalised; and
• One traffic light pole stolen.

READ ALSO: 21 dead intersections: Theft leaves Polokwane traffic in chaos

A threat to road users

Officials say the incidents go beyond property damage, striking at public safety, service delivery and the broader investment residents have made in their city’s infrastructure. Removing or damaging traffic signage and lighting raises the likelihood of crashes and puts motorists, pedestrians and commuters directly at risk.

The municipality said it will not let criminal elements dictate how the city’s infrastructure is treated, stressing that every rand spent on repairs is money taken away from other essential services meant to improve residents’ lives.

WATCH: Damaged traffic lights and road signs outside the Polokwane High Court after an overnight vandalism spree. pic.twitter.com/EkIA61KQha

— Polokwane Observer (@PolokwaneObserv) August 5, 2026

Police probe under way

Authorities are collaborating closely with the police, with officials expressing confidence that those behind the incidents will be tracked down and held accountable.

Three cases have since been registered with Polokwane SAPS, covering:

• Malicious damage to property;
• Tampering with and damaging essential public infrastructure; and
• Theft.

Community asked to assist

The municipality is appealing to residents to work alongside law enforcement in safeguarding public property, noting that an alert community remains one of the strongest deterrents against this kind of crime. Anyone who saw anything unusual, or who has information that could help investigators, is encouraged to speak up.

Tips can be shared with the Polokwane Municipality By-Law Enforcement Office on 015 290 2642 / 015 290 2628, or via SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Confidentiality is guaranteed for all information received.

Warning to scrap dealers

Scrap metal dealers and members of the public have also been warned against buying or accepting any municipal infrastructure suspected to be stolen. Being found in possession of council property without proper authorisation could result in prosecution.

The municipality reiterated that its infrastructure belongs collectively to Polokwane’s residents, and that safeguarding it is everyone’s responsibility, vowing to keep pursuing anyone working to undermine service delivery in the city.