Young child fatally electrocuted by exposed cable in Kanana

The MMC for Environment and Infrastructure Services Department, Mpho Moerane has warned community members about illegal power connections after a 9-year-old girl was fatally electrocuted in Kanana.

According to Rabie Ridge Police Station spokesperson Constable Jacob Nhlongo, at about 6pm on 15 October it was reported to the station that there had been a fatal electrocution.

“Upon arrival we found a number of community members who pointed out the body of the girl lying on the ground. It is not clear what could have have happened but residents said that her death was caused by an electric fault,” said Nhlongo.

Saddened about the death of the child, City Power spokesperson, Isaac Mangena said the incident could have been avoided if residents understood the dangers of illegal power connections.

Mangena had confirmed that City Power cables which were reported as exposed in Mayibuye had been fixed as reported in Cables exposed [Week ending 16 October].

“We have conducted several cut-offs of illegal connections in the area, not only because we lose lots of money, but because the exposed wires used in illegal connections are a danger to residents, especially children. Residents should stop trying to access electricity by vandalising state infrastructure, instead, they should apply through their councillors for legal electricity,” he said.

He added that parts of Kanana had electricity now. “Kanana is regarded as an informal settlement and for City Power to install electricity, several departments should be involved. The settlement should be declared habitable by the housing department and the land should be vetted to ensure it does not belong to a private owner or is earmarked for government developments.”

Moerane added that illegal connections not only damaged the economy but endangered peoples lives. “Kanana informal settlement is one of the many hotspots in the city identified by City Power where the problem of illegal connections persists.

“City Power will intensify the cut-offs of illegal connections across the city, while continuing with an education drive about the dangers of vandalism and illegal connections. We further urged councillors and other community leaders to assist in this regard. Furthermore, the City is engaging with other departments to ensure that informal settlements receive essential services, including legal electricity.”

Moerane extended his condolences to the family of the young victim and appealed to law enforcement agencies to assist in ensuring that the perpetrators were found and brought to book. “We also appeal to the communities to report any acts of vandalism they witness around their areas to the police.”

Details: Anyone with information can contact Rabie Ridge Police Station to report any kind of crime on 10111 or 011 310 0410/20.