Man dies and explosion occurs at Chloorkop Substation
“Members of the public should refrain from such activities and report them when they become aware of them.”
A man was fatally burnt in Chloorkop, outside Kempton Park, while attempting to steal a cable at an Eskom substation. In a media statement released on February 23, Eskom said an explosion occurred on February 21 and upon investigation, security found the man lying on the ground inside the high-voltage yard.
The statement read the matter is under investigation by Eskom and the SAPS. Eskom’s preliminary report indicates the breaker exploded while the deceased was attempting to steal the cable.
The deceased sustained serious burns after cutting a protection cable. Emergency services were called to attend to the injured suspect; however, he died on the way to the hospital.
Eskom expressed concern around the increase in the number of lives lost as a result of contact with electricity due to illegal activities. “Members of the public should refrain from such activities and report them when they become aware of them,” read the statement.
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“The power utility will continue to intensify its efforts to safeguard its assets by partnering with the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies to ensure illegal activities are contained and avoided.”
Members of the public and individuals are encouraged to report any persons interfering with the electricity network and those conducting any illegal activities to the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 11 27 22.
Customers can log faults through the contact centre on 086 003 7566, the Eskom mobile app, customerservices@eskom.co.za or via SMS on 35328.
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