A STERN warning has been issued against the theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure after a man sustained serious injuries while allegedly trying to steal heavy-current underground electricity infrastructure near the Jacobs Substation.

Also read: Man electrocuted on South Coast Road

The incident happened on September 22, and the man sustained third-degree burns.

It is alleged that the man was attempting to steal from or tamper with live electrical components when his actions triggered an arc flash that left him with severe burns all over his body.

Spokesperson for eThekwini Municipality Senzelwe Mzila said the City warns members of the public against the theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure.

Mzila said such criminal acts place lives at serious risk, compromise the electricity network, and unfairly deprive communities of a reliable electricity supply.

“His screams alerted nearby community members, who notified the authorities, and he was subsequently rushed to hospital for medical attention. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potentially fatal consequences of interfering with live electrical infrastructure,” said Mzila.

Also read: Another crackdown on cable theft near The Bluff

In a statement, the municipality said the electricity network carries dangerous levels of electrical energy, and any attempt to access, tamper with, or remove components can result in severe injury, loss of life, fires, explosions, and damage to equipment.

“The impact extends beyond those directly involved. Damage to critical infrastructure interrupts the electricity supply to surrounding communities, inconveniences businesses, and places additional pressure on municipal teams working long hours to restore services,” said Mzila.

The municipality added that due to electricity theft, residents who depend on a stable electricity supply are consequently left without power because of the unlawful actions of individuals seeking to steal or vandalise municipal infrastructure.

“The incident is particularly concerning given that two similar acts of criminality occurred within the same region approximately a year ago, both of which tragically resulted in fatalities,” Mzila added.

The members of the public are urged to stay away from electricity infrastructure and never attempt to access substations, cables, electrical equipment, or other restricted areas.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity around electricity infrastructure to the relevant authorities immediately.

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