Substation attacks plunge city’s businesses into darkness

Members of the public are encouraged to play their part by reporting illegal electricity-related activities to the law enforcement agencies or Eskom.

You can report any form of criminal acts on the power utility’s infrastructure by calling Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722 or the SAPS. Tip-offs can also be done anonymously.

Eskom reported that on May 28 its Gravett substation in Nigel, Ekurhuleni, was extensively vandalised, plunging small business customers in the surrounding areas into extended darkness.
The utility’s team was on May 30 sent out to rebuild the substation after its vandalism left customers in Driemanskap plots, Glenroy farms, Rooikraal and Suikerbosrand in the dark.

“The enormous damage caused requires that the substation be rebuilt and it is estimated that it may take more than a week to repair and restore supply to the affected areas. Eskom is pulling out all the stops to ensure the speedy, but proper and safe reconstruction of the substation,” said Eskom in a statement.

The power utility recently expressed concern about the increase in incidents of theft and vandalism of its electricity infrastructure in Gauteng.
Eskom reports that it has intensified efforts to address the ongoing theft and vandalism of its electricity infrastructure through partnering with law enforcement agencies and communities across the Gauteng province.

The partnership, as reported by Eskom, proves to be yielding fruits as more people are coming forward with information that has led to several arrests, prosecutions and convictions.
Eskom apologises for the inconvenience caused as it works on rebuilding the substation and restoring supply to the affected customers.

Also Read: Dawn Park substation upgrade works completed

Also Read: Vagrants at home in vandalised substation