AS of this this June, City Power will add other energy sources, such as solar and gas, into the mix for the benefit of especially residents of informal settlements, but will also be be stepping up the fight against fraud and corruption in the city.
According to board chairman, Rev Frank Chikane, fraud and corruption cost the entity millions of Rands every year and impact on service delivery and the new strategy is a demonstration of the utility’s zero tolerance to fraud and corruption.
City Power has set up a hotline to enable members of the public to report fraud and graft. It has also established the Metering Services Business Unit to deal with all meter-related issues.
Meter tampering and cable theft are two of the biggest challenges facing the entity. The corruption busting plans form part of the entity’s revised business mandate.
To date, more than 850 cases of cable theft, malicious damage to property and illegal metering – involving both domestic and large power users – have been reported to the police.
About 780 suspects were arrested. Of these, 274 people have been convicted. Chikane said fraud and corruption mostly involved collusion among contractors, customers and some City Power employees.
At least 15 employees have been implicated. Residents can report cases of fraud and corruption on toll free number 0800 00 251 or 24-hour hotline (011) 490-7553, run by an independent service provider.
Article courtesy of the City of Johannesburg.
