Arrest Made After Foiled Cable Theft at Johannesburg Substation
Two alleged cable thieves were apprehended following a failed robbery attempt at a substation in Observatory, Johannesburg. The incident marked the 18th violent encounter involving City Power staff in 2024.
During the nighttime attack on the Bellevue substation, the suspects tied up two security guards. However, swift action from back-up security personnel led to the arrest of two individuals after a shootout.
Thieves Take Advantage of Leftover Cable
According to City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena, the incident occurred on a Sunday night. Seven armed men targeted critical infrastructure in an attempt to steal copper cables.
“The assailants overpowered the security officers patrolling the substation, immobilizing them and attempting to make off with a 52m three-core copper cable that had been left behind by contractors,” Mangena explained.
Following the silent communication from the security officers during their patrol, City Power control room dispatched a response team to the scene.
When the team arrived, they found the suspects in the act of theft. A violent confrontation ensued, resulting in the capture of two suspects while the others managed to escape.
The stolen copper cable was later recovered at a salvage yard in Reuven.
Increasing Attacks on City Power Personnel
Mangena highlighted the alarming trend of violent criminal activities targeting City Power employees. He emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its staff and operations.
Two suspects, aged 38 and 50, are facing charges of tampering with essential infrastructure, robbery, and attempted murder. They are currently held at Yeoville Police Station awaiting their court appearance.
City Power CEO Tshifularo Mashava expressed concern over the spike in violent incidents, stating that such attacks prolong service disruptions and jeopardize the well-being of residents.
These incidents underscore the urgent need for collaboration between City Power and law enforcement agencies to bring perpetrators to justice and safeguard the company’s personnel.
