Bridge the Gap: Vandals cause CBD blackout

Vandals this last week caused a two-day blackout in the Alberton CBD. Officials from the electrical department worked around the clock for almost 48 hours to repair the damage and restore power to businesses and residents.

I have been a councillor for 14 years, but never have so many people been adversely affected by electrical blackouts caused by criminal vandalism. Large parts of Alberton were without electricity since Monday morning due to the vandalism of an electrical substation.

Officials attended to the problem with great efficiency, but when the power was switched on a secondary problem occurred due to damage caused by vandals on the cables connecting the first and second transformers.

This resulted in a massive system failure. Power was only fully restored by Wednesday morning after officials worked day and night.

I thank the Electricity Department for their commitment in restoring electrical service to ratepayers and businesses after these acts of vandalism. Such intentional destruction of public property is an absolute disgrace. I personally condemn these acts. This was a malicious act reflecting ill will towards the community at large.

These vandals can be classed with the lowest form of criminals. The absolute recklessness of their act imputes both intent and malice.

The destruction of public property poses a threat to society, and directly impacts the lives of people and the local economy as well as the economic sustainability of our local businesses.

Vandalism does not just harm the economy, but cause job losses in reality – and that is the real shame! The statutes make vandalism a crime, but the penalties upon conviction remain nothing more than a slap on the wrist. I think that it is time that vandals are punished to the fullest extend of the law.

A specialised unit has been set up to gather proactive crime intelligence on vandals and their plans of vandalism.

An attempt to commit vandalism is an offence as well. I urge all residents to join me in being vigilant and report suspected vandals. We also collectively call for the courts to impose more stringent penalties for the destruction of municipal property, especially electrical infrastructure.

It is unfortunate that the residents of Alberton had to endure the disruption of services as a result of criminal actions. Lets bridge the gap on vandalism and make Ekurhuleni better and safer for all.

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