Bayhead transformer theft threatens Durban’s rail service

TRANSFORMERS are the latest item in the crosshairs of criminals on the Bluff as Brighton Beach SAPS warns of a sharp increase in thefts.

These thefts are particularly prominent in the Bayhead area near Transnet’s railways lines and the transformers are disassembled and the components sold to scrap metal dealerships.

The value of such transformers is about R3,500 and it is stripped for copper valued at just R85 which is retrieved from the transformer.

“The theft of these transformers affects the effective and efficient functioning of passenger and goods trains,” said Brighton Beach SAPS spokesman Capt Louise Le Roux.

Transformers regulate electrical signals and regulate the control of pressure points for trains. Their theft can result in the derailing of passenger and goods trains, which can cause injury or death to passengers and damage to items in transit, as well as the train itself.

READ: Transformer theft threatens rail safety
“The theft of these transformers delays departure and arrival times of passenger and goods trains, and also damage the infrastructure of the rail reserve,” added Capt Le Roux.

She urged anyone with information about transformer theft to make anonymous reports to the Transnet crime line on 0800-003056. This includes information about any second-hand goods dealers who are receiving these items or are selling components.

Anonymous electronic reports can also be made to: SMS Hotline 32211, www.crimeline.co.za or the Crime Stop hotline 08600-10111. Contact Brighton Beach police station on 031-451-8059/60 or Montclair SAPS on 031-469-8219/04.