Subcouncil condemns copper theft and vandalism of infrastructure
1 June 2016
Subcouncil 12 condemns the recent theft of 122 metres of copper cabling along AZ Berman Drive between Spine and Imperial Roads.
Vandalism crippling essential services
The problems of theft and vandalism of City infrastructure have become unmanageable for the City and this has a knock-on effect on households as they are at times without electricity for a few days. The City is engaged in a constant struggle against copper and metals thieves, as well as violent protestors. Every year millions of rands are spent on replacements and repairs – money which could have been better spent on providing services to our residents.
'The City cannot fight this problem alone. The only way we will make progress and stop this blatant disdain for City property and the communities it services is if all residents work with us in protecting our infrastructure. Residents are our eyes, ears and partners on the ground and we have to work together. The City would much rather be spending ratepayers’ money on enhancing and improving infrastructure.
'When communities take ownership of the facilities in their area, it not only ensures that more criminals are apprehended but also creates a climate in which it is more difficult for criminals to operate. We cannot eradicate cable theft without the assistance of the public,' said Cllr Eddie Andrews, chairperson of Subcouncil 12.
Report vandalism
Residents can report vandalism of City infrastructure to the City’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089. Members of the public can report cable theft or provide tip-offs to the Metals Theft Unit control room on 0800 222 771 or 021 400 2828.
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