Central SA
Search for vandals launched in Matjhabeng─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 08:48 Sat, 04 Mar 2023
Free State police are searching for suspects who stole copper cables at the Bronville substation, Welkom, in the Free State.
According to provincial police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, the incident took place on Wednesday night, leading into the early hours of Thursday morning.
Police were alerted to the crime by someone who walked pass the vandalised station.
Thakeng further added the damage to the sub-station was estimated at R4.5 million, following consultations with the Matjhabeng Municipality security department.
He has since called on the public to assist law enforcement agencies with information that may lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, municipal spokesperson, Tshediso Tlali, told OFM News that the municipality has taken steps to ensure repairs are done at the substation.
However, residents will be without electricity for days to come, as a result.
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“Matjhabeng Local Municipality strongly denounces the continuous vandalism and theft of our infrastructure and equipment that is taking place around Matjhabeng.
"The substation in Bronville was vandalised early in the morning and cables were stolen, resulting in a loss of revenue and a huge cost of replacement for the municipality. The cost of this vandalism amounts to more than R4 million.”
Tladi pleaded with residents to be patient and assist the municipality and police to find the perpetrators who destroyed the substation.
