Police fear derailments will follow thefts
Criminals are making off with railway transformers.
THE threat of derailments has police concerned after an increase in transformer thefts from railway lines on the Bluff.
According to Brighton Beach SAP communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux, there has been a rise in the number of transformer thefts in Bayhead and Kings Rest in the last three months. These are stolen from the rail lines, which poses a threat to the safety of commuters.
Apart from the danger of derailment, the thefts cause delays and severe damage to rail infrastructure.
“Preliminary investigations have revealed individuals sell these transformers or components to individuals who in turn sell them to registered secondhand goods outlets within the Durban South area,” said Capt Le Roux.
Police are conducting observations at outlets believed to be involved in the illegal trade and to date one arrest has been made.
Brighton Beach SAP urges residents with information to report it to the detective branch. All calls with be dealt with in confidence and tips can be given anonymously. Call Lietenant Colonel Jayson Mc Gray on 082-411-6400.
