One person has died while allegedly attempting to steal a power cable at the Manufacta substation.

In a statement shared with the Roodepoort Record, City Power general manager for Public Relations and Communication, Isaac Mangena, said the attempted theft occurred in the early hours of Thursday, February 26, leaving multiple areas without electricity.

The damage disrupted supply to Roodepoort West, Lindhaven, Witpoortjie, Manufacta, Reefhaven, Westgate and several local businesses.

According to the statement, the incident occurred around midnight when the suspect allegedly attempted to cut a medium-voltage cable. The cable was cut in two places before the suspect was electrocuted.

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Residents on Buitekant Street, near the substation, reported hearing a loud explosion and screams shortly after midnight.

“Some witnesses said they saw flames a short distance from their homes and a person running across the bridge moments before emergency services were contacted. Police were called to the scene,” the statement read.

City Power technicians are on site assessing the damage and working to restore the electricity supply.

“Residents are reminded that tampering with electrical infrastructure is extremely dangerous and illegal. Community awareness and cooperation remain critical in ensuring a reliable power supply and a safer city for all,” the statement added.

Residents who notice unusual activity near substations or other infrastructure are urged to report it to the Security Risk Management Control Room on 011 490 7900/ 7911/ 7553, or via WhatsApp on 083 579 4497.