Eskom has commended police for a recent operation that led to the arrest of six suspects found in possession of Eskom property valued at R1.5 million.
The six appeared in court on Monday.
Eskom Group Executive for Distribution Monde Bala urged communities to protect electrical infrastructure from vandalism and to report any criminal activity.
“We urge communities to play a role in safeguarding the infrastructure that delivers electricity to their homes and businesses. Reliable electricity is essential for daily life—preserving food, cooking, heating, lighting, and enabling children to study after dark. Protecting this infrastructure is a shared responsibility.
“Vandalism results in unplanned power outages, often leaving homes and businesses without electricity for extended periods. The restoration process can be prolonged, particularly when essential infrastructure such as transformers or high-voltage breaker components is damaged, as these items can take weeks to replace,” he said.
In a statement, the power utility said it has noted a rise in theft which includes the removal of pylon steel structures, illegal sand mining around pylons and siphoning of oil from transformers.
“Tampering with electrical infrastructure poses serious and potentially fatal risks. When transformers are drained of oil or connected to illegal installations, they can overheat and explode, leading to widespread power outages and, in some cases, loss of life.
“The theft of steel components from pylons compromises the structural stability of power towers, increasing the risk of collapse—particularly after heavy rainfall. This endangers both people and animals, as high-voltage lines carry thousands of volts and can be deadly upon contact.”
The power utility added that it had identified a rising trend where individuals throw metal chains and wires onto power lines, causing flashovers that trip power lines and disrupt supply.
“Such reckless actions not only contribute to power failures but also put lives at risk. Tragically, there have been cases where individuals suffered severe injuries or lost their lives due to contact with electrified objects hanging from power lines,” Eskom said.
Vandalism has cost the power utility some R221 million over the past financial year – an improvement from some R271 million the financial year before.
“Despite this improvement, the issue demands ongoing vigilance and proactive community involvement.
“Although Eskom has seen a reduction in these crimes due to increased collaboration with law enforcement agencies and improved security measures, the problem persists and remains unacceptable,” the power utility said.
To report vandalism or suspected criminal behaviour, call 0800 11 27 22, send an SMS to 31090 or contact local municipalities. – SAnews.gov.za
