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Mangaung power utility welcomes arrest of cable theft suspect

───   KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 09:05 Sun, 20 Jul 2025

Mangaung power utility welcomes arrest of cable theft suspect | News Article
Cable theft case in phase 3. Photo supplied

Mangaung’s power utility has expressed satisfaction following the arrest of yet another suspect who was caught in the act of attempting to steal an electrical cable in Bloemfontein.

The incident occurred on Thursday (17/7) after Centlec’s Security Control Room received a direct call reporting suspicious activity involving electrical infrastructure. The caller informed authorities that an African male had been seen tampering with equipment in a residential area.

Security personnel were immediately dispatched to the reported location at 18A Hartley Street in Hamilton, Bloemfontein. On arrival, they discovered the suspect actively cutting electricity cables.

“The suspect was immediately placed under arrest and charged with tampering with essential infrastructure, which falls under Schedule 6 in terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act No. 18 of 2015,” said Centlec acting spokesperson, Tsheliso Leba.

The tampering led to power disruptions, affecting nearby households, businesses, and industrial operations.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday (21/7), where he is expected to apply for bail.

CENTLEC emphasised that such criminal behaviour has far-reaching consequences, not only causing service interruptions and resident frustration, but also leading to significant financial losses for the utility.


“We believe that the arrest of the perpetrator will serve as a deterrent and send a clear message that such criminal activity will not be tolerated,” said Leba. 

“The Mangaung community is encouraged to actively participate in combating theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure by reporting any related incidents to the local police station. Alternatively, they can contact Centlec at (051) 412 2239, via WhatsApp at 069 726 0827, or email fraudandcorruption@centlec.co.za.”

The power entity continues to urge the public to be vigilant and assist in protecting critical infrastructure, including streetlights and network cables, which are often targeted in acts of vandalism and theft.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg

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