Investigation into the tragic electrocution of an EMPD officer launched – says metro
Residents must report electricity-related issues to the metro.
The metro has responded to questions from the GCN following the tragic death of Chief Supt Roelof ‘Barries’ Barnard, who was a chief superintendent for the Germiston North precinct.
Barnard died after being electrocuted at a substation on Tuesday.
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“It is reported that while on duty, Barnard received a call about suspicious-looking people attempting to open a substation in Stark Road in Estera and he responded,” said Themba Gadebe, spokesperson for the metro.
“He found employees from a private contractor carrying out maintenance work on the substation.
“It is alleged he spotted a hole in the door of the substation and as he pointed it out he was electrocuted.”
William Ntladi, district manager media liaison for Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS), confirmed that Barnard was declared dead on scene.
“Elsburg SAPS are currently conducting an investigation,” Gadebe said.
Elsburg police have since opened an inquest docket.
When asked if safety procedures were followed on site, Gadebe commented that this question forms part of the ongoing investigation.
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When asked if the metro will address the ongoing power issues in Germiston, as someone has now died, Gadebe said, “Our Anti-Cable Theft Unit, community liaisons, Investigation and Loss Control Units, the SAPS, ward councillors, local CPFs, private security companies, the metro’s energy department, community leaders and other law enforcement agencies are always on the ground, working around the clock in an attempt to try and curb cable theft and illegal electricity connections.
“We will continue to attend to power issues when summoned.”
Community members are once again encouraged to report electricity-related issues by calling 086 054 3000.
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