The community of Glenesk in La Rochelle Road has had enough of cable thieves terrorising them since late last month.
They are apparently digging in front of the people’s yards and gates for cable.
Selvan Naidoo said his business, Cats Autohaus, has suffered because they struggled to get into the premises as there was a trench dug in front of his gate.
“The digging started on December 23 and we called City Power which confirmed that it is not their cable that was being stolen. Apparently it belongs to Eskom. Someone has the map for these underground cables because how on earth did they know that there are cables, apparently used to power the trams way back, here?
“On January 8 they were digging again and they damaged a water meter. Joburg Water came to repair it. And on January 10, I hired people to fix the paving because no one wants to fix it. On January 12 they were at it again.
Police are called and I remember one night even shots were fired. They continue to dig and steal cable,” he said.
Ward 124 councillor Mongameli Mnyameni said this cable theft is continuing even during the curfew and is happening often at night.
“I have reported this to the SAPS and City Power so they can take action. But there is no one willing to really help.
“The SAPS knew about this ongoing crime but they didn’t want to assist in arresting these criminals. This is affecting the residents and businesses around the area.
“The community also cannot fight this alone. All the affected people must come to the party: City Power, SAPS, businesses, community and the CPF. We need patrollers to monitor, especially at night.
“We understand that the SAPS can’t be in every street every hour, but with crime hot spots they need to be more visible. The police must also respond when residents phone them to tell them that the thieves are busy digging.
“I’m willing to have a joint meeting with all the stakeholders in order to find ways on how to eradicate these elements of crime, but it will be once gatherings are again allowed,” explained the councillor.
Although the area falls under Moffat View SAPS, Booysens SAPS communications officer Capt Lorraine van Emmerik said she will find out what’s happening.
Emails were sent to Eskom for comment, but no comment has been received.
This is a developing story. More updates will be shared.
