Security catches boys vandalising reservoir in eMbalenhle
The stolen reservoir plastic was used to cover shacks in the area, with the minors allegedly being paid R100 for each load they stole.
The DA Mading Security Company apprehended four youths caught vandalising the Ext 15 water reservoir in eMbalenhle on November 3.
According to the security company, three people initially escaped. However, security officers arrested one, who later led them to where the stolen plastic material, used for re-roofing the reservoir, was sold.
Stolen Khanye, the company’s director, said it was concerning that the apprehended vandals were minors. He added that the investigation revealed that the stolen reservoir plastic was used to cover shacks in the area, with the minors allegedly paid R100 for each load they stole.
“Our security guard on duty noticed two boys enter the reservoir, followed by another two pushing a wheelbarrow. While they were cutting the reservoir cover, the guard called for backup, and our team quickly responded,” said Khanye.
Khanye expressed disappointment that some community members appear to be exploiting children to commit crimes.
“The boy we caught told us that residents in Ext 16 pay them to cut the reservoir plastic. He led us to certain homes, where we found the plastic used to cover shacks. It is disappointing to see adults use children for criminal activities instead of protecting them,” said Khanye.
Khanye added that after leaving messages at the homes of the three boys who escaped, they, accompanied by their parents, handed themselves to the police on November 4.
All are charged with theft and will soon appear in court.
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Donald Green, the media liaison and content developer at the Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM), confirmed that the municipality welcomed the arrests of those believed to be part of a criminal syndicate linked to the theft and vandalism of the Ext 15 reservoir, which had disrupted water supply in the area.
“The thieves, who aimed to sabotage water services, are in police custody. The municipality commends all stakeholders for their swift action and commitment to protecting infrastructure. The arrests mark a significant step forward in curbing criminal activity that has repeatedly disrupted the water supply,” said Green.
Green said the GMM remains committed to working with law enforcement, private partners and communities to safeguard municipal assets and strengthen service delivery.
“We applaud and continue to urge our residents to promptly report any incidents of theft and vandalism, including suspicious activities, to the municipal call centre on 0800 600 001/004 or to their nearest police station,” said Green.
