Unlocked substation attracts cable thieves
CITY Power’s failure to secure a power station has resulted in repeated incidents of cable theft and power outages, according to residents.
Franco Broccardo said thieves continuously steal copper cables from a substation on St John’s Road in Upper Houghton.
He believes the substation, only protected by a broken and unlocked door, has been left vulnerable and is a target for criminals.
The elderly man who took the Gazette to the substation revealed how the doors allowed anyone to access the substation at any time of the day or night.
He said that since 13 May, there had been more than 10 power outages that affected the area, which have all been attributed to cable theft by the city.
“My wife and I are old, these power outages aren’t safe. I am willing to secure the substation myself so we can prevent this cable theft,” he said.
Operations manager for nearby St John’s College, Allan Duncan confirmed the recent cable theft incidents and admitted that something had to be done to prevent future incidents from occurring.
“The substation is just off the school property with the entrance to it on St John’s Road. We have proposed that a brick wall be built around the substation and for entry to be allowed on the side of the school property,” he said.
The school has installed an early warning system that alerts security when someone tries to gain entry.
“Two men tried to steal cables a week ago and the security company was able to respond in time to catch one of the men. He was arrested and taken to Yeoville Police Station.
At the time of publishing, Joburg City Power has failed to comment on the issue. This despite various attempts from the Gazette to get comment from the spokesperson and the Joburg North area manager.
Have you been affected by any power outages as a result of cable theft?
Tell us by posting on our timeline, Rosebank Killarney Gazette or tweet us @RK_Gazette
Add us on BBM for the latest news in your community. PIN: 29C7976C
