Reporter – George April
Malmesbury:- Eskom’s Coastal Cluster Rapid Response Team (RRT), in collaboration with SAPS and other stakeholders, successfully removed illegal electricity connections in the Witsand area.
This intervention, led by Eskom’s Malmesbury CNC, is part of an ongoing effort to combat energy theft, which costs the utility millions in infrastructure repairs and replacements.
Illegal connections not only result in financial losses but also pose serious safety risks, causing power outages, fires, and infrastructure damage. General Manager Mbulelo Yedwa praised the team for their professionalism and cautious execution of the operation.
While some residents rely on illegal connections due to a lack of formal electricity access, others support Eskom’s actions, saying these connections cause frequent blackouts and damage to appliances.
Eskom urges communities to work with them to find legal electricity solutions and warns that energy theft carries serious legal consequences. However, balancing enforcement with the realities of poverty remains a challenge. The power utility continues to explore alternative solutions, such as prepaid meters and community engagement programs, to reduce illegal connections while ensuring safe electricity access for all.
