CP raises alarm over Infrastructure theft

City Power (CP) has called on residents and businesses in Roodepoort to remain vigilant following a surge in electricity infrastructure theft and vandalism recorded in January.

According to CP general manager Isaac Mangena, 20 infrastructure-related incidents were reported at the Roodepoort Service Delivery Centre (SDC) since the beginning of the year, making it one of the hardest-hit areas in the city. These incidents continue to threaten power supply stability, public safety and the delivery of essential services.

CP believes theft and vandalism have resulted in repeated unplanned power outages, damage to critical equipment such as cables, transformers and switchgear, and increased pressure on maintenance teams.

“These crimes result in the diversion of millions of rands from planned maintenance and network upgrades to emergency repairs. The broader impact is felt by households, businesses, healthcare facilities, transport systems and water services,” said Mangena.

The utility confirmed that 112 infrastructure-related incidents were recorded across all SDCs citywide, with Roodepoort ranking second-highest after Reuven. Co-ordinated operations between CP and law enforcement agencies have led to the arrest of 18 suspects linked to infrastructure-related crimes.

CP warned that electricity infrastructure theft is often linked to organised criminal networks and scrap metal dealers, forming part of a broader value chain that fuels ongoing vandalism and cable theft.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity near substations, mini-substations, overhead lines or other essential electricity infrastructure. This includes unauthorised access to restricted areas, tampering with electrical equipment, open or damaged access points, or individuals carrying cables or cutting tools.

Suspicious activity can be reported to CP’s Security Risk Management Control Room on 011 490 7900 / 7911/ 7553 or via WhatsApp on 083 579 4497.

Roodepoort Northsider visited residents who are mostly affected by power outages due to theft, to hear what they had to say.

“We experience outages far too often, and now it makes sense when you hear about cable theft. People need to understand that this crime affects everyone,” said Sibongumusa Majola.

Thembokuhle Gumede said when the power goes out, businesses suffer immediately. If we see something suspicious.
“We should report it instead of ignoring it.”

Nomfundo Zakwe believes security can’t do everything alone.

“As residents, we need to look out for our neighbourhoods and protect public infrastructure.”