Centlec is quite concerned about the alarming cases of cable theft and vandalism aimed at streetlights components across Bloemfontein.
“Incidents of theft on the street light cables and our network were recorded on the N8 road from the Airport Bridge, M10 road to Lemo Mall, Hilton, University of the Free State (towards the Hillside View College and the South Park cemetery), Lourier Park and recently on the N1,” spokesperson of Centlec, Lele Mamatu, mentioned.
Mamatu further mentioned that these barbaric acts have not only left the communities in darkness but also left Centlec with unnecessary high volumes of streetlight repair service requests.
“The perpetrators of these kind of crimes targets strategic areas within our area of supply to steal and vandalise our infrastructure without any fear. This is a trend that must be curbed as it is not only expensive to replace stolen cables and vandalised equipment, but it also jeopardises the safety of motorists and pedestrians,” Mamatu added.
Mamatu appealed to the community to take ownership and protect the infrastructure from criminal activity. “Let us all join hands and work together with various community-based organisations against these acts of crime,” Mamatu concluded.
If you spot any criminal and suspicious activity, please contact the nearest police station or the Fraud Hotline at 051-412-2239.
Compiled by Abigail Visagie
