Homeless Westbury man electrocuted after allegedly trying to steal cables

A homeless person has died after an explosion at a substation in the Newclare, Westbury area on Friday morning, according to Bosmont Community Police (BCP).

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena explained they believe that two homeless men tried to open an MV link box with the aim of stealing some of the material when it exploded causing the fire that killed one of them.

The MV link box the men allegedly tried to open. ANA

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The scene in Westbury on Friday morning. Image: WhatsApp/Supplied

Another is being treated for burns, and reports have been received that a third suspect ran away after the explosion.

As a result of the explosion, it is estimated that the area would be without power for at least four hours.

A screenshot of the message sent by BCP on Whatsapp.

BCP advised residents to unplug all electronic devices, as power surges may be experienced while City Power attempts to restore electricity.

Mangena said that City Power technicians and engineers were working to restore electricity in affected suburbs, including Maraisburg, Bosmond and Relief.

The damaged power substation that caught fire and killed one homeless man on Friday in Newclare, south west of Johannesburg. Pictures: Supplied by City Power

“The substation is currently a crime scene and City Power technicians will only be able to work to restore power in the affected suburbs after the police are done,” Mangena said.

“City Power would like to warn people against vandalism and using its infrastructure as shelter as this may result in injuries or death. City Power extends its condolences to the family of the deceased.”

Police and emergency services are at the scene.

– African News Agency (ANA)

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