‘Owls’ blow whistle on cable theft
Recently the incidents of cable theft in the local townships skyrocketed and the community in every extension is at their wits end with the lack of electricity. They decided to combine resources to curb this growing problem under the leadership of Walter Lee, head of Night Owl Community Watch.
“Cable theft has grown over the last few months to such an extent that incidents were reported daily,” said Lee. The theft of vital cables that service a large area, occurred on Tuesday 13 February.”
This was the final straw and the community joined forces with Night Owl, Warmbaths Taxi Association (WATA), and the local SAPS. They have managed to apprehend the suspects. Investigations are ongoing.
Since these suspects were apprehended, the local community has been more vigilant and the various extensions created groups to ensure that more criminals are taken out of the community and that they contribute to curbing the growing problem that leaves them stranded without a power supply.
According to Lee, they rely on WhatsApp groups to notify each other when there is speculation of theft, and community members are issued whistles to alert neighbours if there are any suspicious activities in their immediate area.
Lee said that it seems their plan is working and will continue to blow the whistle on cable theft.
