City Power’s Security Risk Management team, in collaboration with law enforcement, arrested two suspects on October 17 for illegally reconnecting their electricity after it had been disconnected earlier that day.

Isaac Mangena City Power spokesperson stated that the suspects, whose actions were discovered around 17:30, face charges of tampering with infrastructure, vandalism, and electricity theft.

“We will continue to take tough measures against those who steal electricity,” Mangena said.

The operation focused on major defaulters in the Reuven Service Delivery Centre area, where a total of R2.2 billion is owed.

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City Power cracks down as R45m debt sparks mass disconnections The purpose of the drive was to collect money from defaulting businesses in Nasrec, Rifle Range and Mondeor. The entire amount of all defaulting businesses was R45m. City Power representatives informed defaulting companies that they would be cut off through termination notices.

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“A brick manufacturing company, owing R21.1 million, attempted to avoid disconnection by paying R440 000 but was found to have illegally reconnected its power. City Power responded by removing the Medium Voltage breaker to prevent further tampering,” he explained.

Mangena added that the crackdown also targeted other high-profile defaulters, including a shopping centre in Nasrec and a residential complex in Turffontein, both with substantial debts.

“Some customers have used deceptive tactics to stay connected, such as filing false queries or seeking court orders,” he noted.

According to Mangena, City Power is owed R9.8 billion across the city and urges customers to settle overdue bills to avoid disconnection.

“Disconnection is a last resort, but continued non-payment will force us to act,” he added.

The utility remains committed to recovering outstanding debts and ensuring reliable electricity for all.

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