Mark Kleinschmidt, Ward 60 councillor
We are experiencing an alarming escalation in the theft of electrical cables and components in the city, and Lansdowne and Sybrand Park are not exempt.
During this last week of January, residents had to endure a double whammy of blackouts when electrical connectors were stolen twice from electricity boxes.
The City’s electricity department was swift in restoring power and replacing the connectors, but the need to make the vulnerable electricity boxes and all electricity generating apparatus vandal-proof is imperative.
I believe syndicates target the electrical components and carry on a lucrative illicit trade in these parts.
We were shown, by Saldanah Bay mayor Andre Truter, an illustration of smart poles, a European innovation whereby street lights are powered by renewable wind energy sources and relay media messages to authorities. This is an innovation that mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis will strongly consider for the City of Cape Town. When vandalism and theft by criminals are a challenge, we need to be smarter.
As Mr Truter’s mantra states, “Like a seasoned boxer in the ring, it’s all in the swing!”
Please report all cases of vandalism and theft of electricity cables and components to 021 4807700 from a mobile phone or 107 from a landline.