Scores of residents are up in arms and frustrated after Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) cut off illegal water and electricity connections.
This was on September 20 in different parts Simunye, particularly Ext 5 and residents have been left with no electricity ever since.
The matter was brought to the Randfontein Herald’s attention on September 21 by a resident who alerted the publication of the day’s occurrence.
Residents tried barricading the entrance with rocks and burning tyres but retreated shortly thereafter. No violence erupted.
The Herald spoke to resident Lindiwe Mvelase who said that they were shocked when they woke up to scores of municipal employees from the electrical department, disconnecting their electricity.
“We woke up just confused. We were just randomly told that we have illegal electricity connections and that is news to some of us,” said Mvelase, who insists the municipality is grasping at straws.
She added that they were in the presence of police officers and the Red Ants who were on standby to guard against any eventualities.
The Herald also spoke to another resident Modiegi Williams who said she too was shocked to find municipal workers carrying out the disconnections. She alleges that their decision to have a no vote of confidence against their ward councillor is what prompted the cut-offs.
“This is not the first time that she [ward councillor] has done this. This is her habit every time we take a stand against her. She neglects her role and duties towards us as a community,” Williams said.
The Herald has approached RWCLM spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa for comment and will publish their feedback once received.
