Electricity team finds body of suspected cable thief in Cullinan

The CoT’s electricity team made a grim discovery when they probed the reasons for a power outage. Several businesses reported a power failure in Cullinan on July 21, and as the electricity team investigated, they found the body of a suspected cable thief inside a mini-substation.

The man, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, had been fatally electrocuted while he tried to cut live electrical cables. The emergency services, the police and a forensic team were immediately called to the scene.

Johannes Bekker, the DA councillor for Ward 100, was on site and told the Streeknews that he saw the entire process.

“I was there from the initial report until the removal of the deceased,” said Bekker.

“This was not just a crime; it was an act of desperation that ended in tragedy. No one wins. The community suffers, families mourn, and critical infrastructure is compromised.”

According to Bekker, cable theft has become a growing concern in many parts of SA, including Cullinan and surrounding areas.

“Beyond being a criminal act, it is a direct attack on public safety.”

Bekker said that not only are perpetrators putting their own lives at risk, but they also endanger the lives of municipal workers and cause widespread power outages that affect lodges, post offices, businesses and homes.

“Theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure cost municipalities millions each year in repairs, replacements and lost productivity. Repeated damage also delays service delivery and frustrates communities already battling power challenges,” Bekker added.

According to the Tshwane Electricity Department, mini-substations and substations carry high-voltage currents that can instantly kill.

“We must work together to protect our infrastructure. A few minutes of criminal activity can lead to days of darkness and tragedy.”

The Cullinan SAPS urges people not to steal cables.

“Cable theft is not only a serious criminal offence but also poses a significant risk to the lives of those involved and causes severe disruption to essential services, including electricity supply, communication and transport systems,” said Sergeant Connie Moganedi, the corporate communication officer for the Cullinan Police, in a media statement released on July 22.

“The SAPS reiterate that such acts will not be tolerated and perpetrators will be dealt with accordingly.”

The police ask residents to act responsibly and report suspicious activities related to infrastructure tampering to the nearest police station or via Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

“What happened in Cullinan when the alleged cable thief lost his life is a grim reminder and stern warning of the dangers of tampering with electrical infrastructure,” Bekker concluded.

A case of attempted cable theft resulting in death was opened.