Electrical cables with an estimated value of R750 000 were stolen off massive wooden reels at the Matjhabeng electrical workshop in Alma Road last week.
Circumstances around the theft raise suspicion as none of the installed CCTV cameras were working, only one of the more than 150 Matjabeng security guards was assigned to these vast premises, and no-one saw or heard anything the night of 25 April when the theft occurred.
This major theft of critical infrastructure was discovered the following morning when municipal employees reported for duty and saw that the steel doors of the storeroom had been broken open, and the wooden reels were empty.
Inside sources moot this as an inside job, or at least municipal employees working with cable theft syndicates.
The more than 630 m of stolen cable was taken from two large reels, and included other smaller rolls as well.
Questions have been raised as to how this major theft could have occurred at a key municipal storage area, and why there was only one guard on duty.
Tshediso Tlali, Matjhabeng spokesperson, confirms the theft.
“As a result of ongoing load shedding, the CCTV cameras were disrupted. Such acts of vandalism and sabotage pose a serious threat towards the daily operations of the municipality to service and supply electricity to businesses and the community at large. This also impacts the economy and our revenue.”
Tlali says the municipal public safety unit and law enforcement authorities are working together and investigations are at an advanced stage.
He says the municipality is committed to combating cable theft.
“We appeal to community to partner with the municipality and law enforcement authorities to report and fight cable theft.”
Concerned residents are asking why, if Matjhabeng is so concerned, does it not protect its assets.
“There seems to be no political will to deliver services, and this despite the rosy messages that are being delivered. Residents are living in filth, and are surrounded by decay. Is it now time for residents to say enough is enough?” is a common question being asked on Facebook and WhatsApp resident groups.
- On Tuesday (02/05), Matjhabeng municipality employees embarked on an illegal strike action at the main municipal building. They intimidated other employees, and vandalised and maliciously damaged municipal property.
In an internal memorandum the municipal manager, Adv. Lonwabo Ngoqo, has stated that employees who participated in this illegal strike action shall be subjected to disciplinary action, which could lead to their dismissal.
According to Capt. Loraine Earle, provincial police spokesperson, no arrests have been made.
Anyone with information can contact the investigation officer, Sgt. David Maleka, on 057-391-6291.
Vista understands the matter will be handed over to the Hawks once the docket has been registered.
