Streetlight theft on the rise in Marburg

In a matter of weeks, a number of streetlight poles including components have been stolen from Marburg and surrounds. Be it wooden, steel, or aluminium, criminals are not only removing the streetlight poles, but security lights from private properties, which are then allegedly sold to scrap metal dealers.

Ray Nkonyeni Municipality is aware of the reported incidents of vandalism.

Spokesperson Simon April said the municipality views the damage and removal of streetlight infrastructure as a criminal act.

“Streetlights play a critical role in improving visibility, enhancing road safety and deterring crime.Their destruction exposes residents, pedestrians and motorists to increased safety risks, particularly at night, and negatively impacts the sense of security within the community.”

He added that such vandalism places additional strain on municipal resources, as funds intended for planned service delivery and infrastructure upgrades are diverted towards emergency repairs and replacements.

“This not only delays other essential projects but also increases maintenance costs for the municipality.”
The municipality is currently verifying the extent of the damage and will work closely with law enforcement agencies, the CPF and community structures to address the matter.

Furthermore, for many years, thieves have been stripping copper wire from electricity infrastructure in Marburg, leaving residents in the dark.

“Residents are at their wits end as they are sometimes without electricity for days. Frozen food has to be thrown out. Pensioners suffer the brunt of the power outage. With an increase in electricity prices and cost of living, it is becoming impossible to live on a pension of just over R2 000,” said Marburg CPF chairperson Fathima Moosa.

According to residents and community leaders, crime is also on the rise in both residential and business areas. In October alone, reported incidents included residential burglaries, business break-ins, theft from motor vehicles, robbery with firearms, common robbery, murder and attempted murder.

“This month (January) also shows an increase in crime compared to the same period last year,” added Moosa.
Security companies and CPF patrols are active in Marburg, however, many residents feel these efforts are not enough. While police have made arrests in some theft cases, the CPF encourages the community to report suspicious-looking people in their neighbourhoods.

The increase in crime is linked to vagrancy around abandoned houses and bushes near neighbourhoods; drug use and sales near schools and community spaces; and prostitution in certain areas, with residents saying it draws additional criminal behaviour.

Community leaders are calling for stronger enforcement and more resources to keep the area safe.
Those who wish to join the Marburg CPF, contact Fathima Moosa on 082 4619541.

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