Kya Sand rife with illegal connections and stolen transformers
Isaac Mangena said the problem of illegal connections has put unbearable amount of weight to their network, risking collapsing the grid.
City Power confiscated thirteen illegally connected transformers and more than 15 000kg worth of cables in Msawawa informal settlement in Kya Sands during their operation in the area.
The operation, part of the entity’s comprehensive load reduction strategy, was carried out in collaboration with law enforcement agencies. During the process of cutting and removing cables which were connected to the network, they discovered several transformers discreetly concealed behind brick-walled structures.
According to the entity spokesperson Isaac Mangena, some of those transformers are suspected to have been stolen and estimated to cost around R450 000. The Security Risk management team is still working on tracking whether they were stolen from City Power or from other municipalities.
“Kya Sands and surrounding areas have been plagued by constant power outages resulting from these illegal connections, together with theft, and vandalism.”
City Power CEO Tshifularo Mashava explained that when they introduced load reduction two months ago, they made a commitment to aggressively deal with the main contributors of excessive electricity consumption, with illegal connections being one of those.
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“To date, we have carried out more than 50 disconnection operations around informal settlements in the city. This discovery of 13 transformers in a single informal settlement, shows the gravity of the challenge we are facing, but also points to the sterling work of our security team and the police, which we greatly commend.”
Another 15 000kg of Aerial Bundle Cables (ABC), copper, aluminium, and bare wires valued at an estimated R800 000 was found at Leratong Village informal settlement.
Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp said that he fully supports the continued efforts of City Power, JMPD, SAPS, and Eskom in combating illegal connections.
“These illegal activities not only overburden our electricity infrastructure, leading to increased outages, they also pose serious safety risks to our communities. Moreover, the theft of electricity from neighbouring properties is an alarming trend, and it is deeply concerning to hear reports of City Power contractors engaging in illegal reconnections.”
He continued that Msawawa Informal Settlement presents unique challenges, particularly as it falls on private property. “This situation has complicated the city’s efforts to address compliance issues effectively. The lack of adherence to necessary regulations has hindered ability to implement necessary lawful actions.
“At some point, a litigation process will need be initiated with the aim of expropriating the property. Once the city gains control, it will be in a better position to either formalise the settlement or consider relocating the residents to a more suitable location.”
Steenkamp said that he will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to navigate this complex process and deliver the best possible outcome for the community.
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