City Power recovers cables and transformers from illegal Midrand connections

City Power said teams recovered about a tonne of cables and two transformers during an operation against illegal electricity connections in Midrand, north of Johannesburg. The equipment was valued at approximately R2.5 million.

The operation covered Kanana Informal Settlement and Klipfontein View. The company estimated the cables’ value at R500 000 and the two transformers’ combined value at R2 million. These are the operator’s estimates.

SABC reported the recovery on Oct. 13, and the Midrand Reporter independently reported the same operation and valuation. The connections had repeatedly disrupted supply in Rabie Ridge Extensions, according to City Power.

Spokesperson Isaac Mangena said enforcement would continue to protect infrastructure and supply for paying customers. He described a suspected organised network and said the South African Police Service should dismantle it.

The allegation of a criminal syndicate remains the company’s assessment. The reports do not establish a court finding or identify a completed prosecution.