Power utility cracks down on theft

Eight suspects have been arrested for theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure across Gauteng between October and November.
According to Ronel Kotze, from Eskom, the arrests follow Eskom’s efforts to address the increasing incidents of illegal electricity-related activities in the province.
“Two suspects died in separate incidents due to electrocution, as they had tampered with the electricity equipment.
“The suspects’ arrests were effected as a result of a partnership between Eskom, SAPS and members of various communities, as they understand the impact that this has on their lives, the economy and Eskom’s ability to sustain services to them,” she added.

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There are different types of electricity-related criminal acts that are prevalent, namely, fraud, stealing of electricity, theft and vandalism of equipment, unpaid bills and buying electricity from ghost vendors.
“Stealing electricity for personal use or third party consumption, conducting illegal connections and/or using electricity in an unregistered meter is punishable with imprisonment as stated in the Criminal Matters Amended Act No 18 of 2015. Material theft and vandalism of electricity equipment undermine Eskom’s ability to deliver on its service delivery mandate.
“Copper theft costs the economy between R5-billion and R7-b a year, and Eskom spends about R2-b a year replacing stolen cables.
“Eskom in Gauteng continues to heighten security in hot spot areas across its areas of supply as cable theft often leads to prolonged power outages and compromises the quality of supply, which affects businesses, essential services, as well as the day-to-day lives of society.

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“Such acts of criminality result in loss of revenue for Eskom are unsustainable for the economy and endanger the lives of innocent people, including those of perpetrators.
“We are investigating and implementing alternative measures that will assist us to prevent the theft and vandalism of our equipment.
“We also would like to thank communities that report such acts to Eskom and the SAPS,” said Kotze.
“With the collaboration with the law-enforcement agencies, we will ensure these criminals are arrested and brought to book,” said Keith Maitisa, safety, health, environment, quality and security manager.
Members of the public are requested to report criminal activities, such as illegal connections, theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure, to authorities or the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722.

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