Staff Reporter
Thieves targeting street light conductors have reportedly gone on the rampage in Botshabelo, about 35km east of Bloemfontein, after more than 180 cases were reported over the past few weeks.
Centlec spokesperson Lele Mamatu said the local power distributor is worried with the sudden jump in theft cases as it could endanger people’s lives due to poor lighting on the streets.
“We have witnessed a growing trend in incidents of vandalism and theft of our equipment resulting in the loss of revenue and increased replacement costs for Centlec,” said Mamatu in a statement.
“Just a few weeks ago, plus or minus 180 incidents of stolen street light conductors have been reported across Botshabelo, leaving residents of this community without proper area lighting.
“These criminal acts do not only affect Centlec, but they also affect businesses and the community in that area as this creates a breeding ground for criminal activities.”
Mamatu warned that the theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure is a very serious criminal offence which could earn one a long jail term of more than 10 years if found guilty.
He said Centlec strongly condemns the continuous vandalism and theft of the equipment and urged residents to report any suspicious acts to the authorities.
Last month one person was arrested in connection with cases of theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure in Botshabelo amounting to R9 000.
The matter is still in court and the suspect is facing charges of theft and malicious damage to property.