MEYERTON. – Five suspects were apprehended after being found in possession of 150 meters of stolen electricity cables. The incident happened on Wednesday, 06 September.
According to Midvaal Local Municipality (MLM), the success results from quick thinking and prompt action by Meyerton resident Johan Trauernicht.
When Trauernicht noticed five individuals engaged in suspicious activity, he immediately posted a message on the newly established crime prevention WhatsApp group. He promptly contacted MMC for Public Safety and Roads Gerrit Viljoen.
MLM says: “The community’s swift response played a pivotal role in capturing the suspects found in possession of approximately 150 meters of stolen electricity cables. Upon the arrival of Afrigaurd personnel at the scene, they secured the area until the South African Police Service (SAPS) infrastructure unit took over and subsequently arrested the suspects.“
Acknowledging the importance of community involvement in maintaining safety and protecting vital infrastructure, the Executive Mayor, Peter Teixeira, the Speaker of Council, Alan McLoughlin, and MMC for Public Safety and Roads, Gerrit Viljoen, paid a visit to Trauernicht on Thursday. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude for his vigilance and invaluable assistance in bringing the suspects to justice.
Viljoen says: “The incident highlights the ongoing challenge faced by the Midvaal Local Municipality, where millions of rands are expended annually due to cable theft and electrical infrastructure vandalism. These resources could be allocated to improve infrastructure and enhance service delivery for our community.”
Viljoen states that in the past two weeks, 12 electrical pillar boxes were vandalized and now require replacement. Viljoen encourages the community to participate in crime prevention efforts.
“Residents are urged to promptly report any suspicious activity, consider joining their local Community Policing Forum (CPF), engage in local community WhatsApp groups, and contribute to safeguarding the critical infrastructure funded by ratepayers.
“By working together, we can create a safer and more prosperous Midvaal for all its residents,” Viljoen said.
