UPDATE: Fire at substation probed – Many to be without power
Investigation launched by Eskom and police as substation fire leaves many without power in Randfontein.
Both the police and Eskom has launched an investigation following an explosion and fire at a Randfontein substation on Saturday morning, 6 April.
The power utility tweeted early on Saturday morning that the substation had exploded and caught fire which has since left parts of Randfontein without power.
Read the initial article here:
UPDATE R’fontein substation fire: Herald journalist reports from scene
According to Tshidiso Thlaripe, Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) spokesperson the areas affected include Mohlakeng, Toekomsrus, Randfontein CBD and its surrounding suburbs as well as Finsbury.
Frik Blom, Senior Supervisor of Customer Network Centre for Eskom in Libabon told the Herald on scene they suspect a criminal element.
“What we know is that there is a lot of cable theft around this area.”
He added that for several months, security officers had to be placed at the station but said due to the location of the substation, which is located near a dumping site, the crime issue cannot be contained.
Blom went on to say that other Eskom employees do not want to work at the site as they fear for their safety.
He also shifted the blame on the municipality saying, “We have tried to get the municipality involved on many occasions regarding the issue but they said they have no money.”
Blom said he had received an emergency call about the fire at about 8.30am on Saturday.
“We will be switching on one of the transformers as soon as we bring the fire under control.
“We urge people to be patient as we are restoring the power supply,” Blom added.
Thlaripe added the cost of the damage cannot be determined as yet to pending investigations.
“The other issues is that we have to know whether spares are immediately available because sometimes you find they are not in the country.”
According to Sergeant Audrey Sefara, Westonaria Police spokesperson two security guards were posted at Randfontein substation near the dumping site.
“A few minutes after they patrolled around the vicinity they were surprised to hear a big bang from the same side. They allegedly went to investigate and found the MVA transformer on fire. They then contacted Eskom and the police. The explosion has affected certain areas around Randfontein and an inquiry into the matter has been registered with the police.”
Anyone who might be able to assist with information relating to this incident may contact Crime Stop number- 08600 10111 or SMS Crime Line – 32211 to report crime anonymously.
