Polokwane Municipality says it is not coping with unprecedented high cases of cable theft experienced on a daily basis.
The situation has resulted in delayed restoration of power supply to affected areas.
In one week only, more than 170 cases of cable theft were reported within the municipality’s supply areas, in particular Luthuli Park, Extensions and Seshego.
Polokwane Municipality Spokesperson, Thipa Selala says that cable theft affects residents and businesses negatively as it results in them having no electricity supply for days and even weeks.
“Whilst the municipality is attending to these cases, the affected customers are urged to exercise patience as there are more households that need to be attended. In the meantime, all electrical wiring at the affected areas should be considered to be live to avoid injury and all electrical appliances be switched off to avoid damage when electricity supply is restored, ” said Selela
Due to this high number of incidences, the municipality says it struggles with manpower and materials required to restore power on time resulting in other customers going for weeks without electricity.
Polokwane Municipality says that it has noted that the prevalence of cases has reduced in areas where community has come together to form community policing and patrols.
“The municipality is, therefore, urging all residents and businesses to be vigilant over their service infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities. The municipality’s community services are busy with patrols in the hot spots, but cannot be everywhere at the same time, ” said Selala