The theft of doors for sub-electrical boxes and street light pole covers in Actonville is a concern that has been raised by Ward 29 Clr Haseena Ismail.
According to Ismail, various streets in the area have been affected by criminal activity and this poses a safety hazard to the residents.
“I am urging every resident to be vigilant,” said Ismail.
“These thugs are observing the movements of residents. They know what time the residents leave or enter their homes and businesses so that they can find time to engage in their illegal activities.
“My concern is that when these doors are stolen it takes a long time for the energy department to replace them and this poses a risk of either electrical shock or of residents staying without electricity for hours.
According to Ismail, the theft of these doors and covers may occur at any time of the day. She urges the community to be alert and to report criminal activity.
ALSO READ:
School explains its religious policy
“The offenders need to be apprehended.
“I’m appealing for you, the public, to be aware of suspicious individuals near these boxes.
“They will sit or lie down and wait for a quiet moment to operate.
“Please call the police if you see them operating on those boxes, and log a report to 0860543000 and get a reference number.”
Ismail said the EMPD and electrical department are fully aware of the occurring theft. She claimed that after a meeting with the EMPD, the police department said action could be taken once a case had been opened by the energy department.
“This is sheer lack of responsibility and a waste of taxpayers’ money,” she said.
In a response to the City Times inquiry, Ekurhuleni spokesperson Themba Gadebe said:
“The city is aware of the situation. We are therefore rolling out a programme to replace the vulnerable boxes with resilient protective structures.
“The replacement of the current boxes happens in areas including Fazel, Daas and Mabuya streets.
“This is done to curb the criminality that is happening.”
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.
