A significant increase in cable theft incidents in Mitchells Plain has prompted ‘urgent intervention’ from the City of Cape Town’s Cable Theft unit.
Ashley Potts, Ward 81 councillor, has reported an increase in cable theft incidents affecting infrastructure along The Cedars Avenue and Weltevreden Road, as reported by TygerBurger via News24.
In addition, the damage has disrupted recent road resurfacing efforts.
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Ashley Potts was alerted to further infrastructure damage at 7:30am in a recent report on Wednesday, 26 June.
‘I was informed by a resident of further cable damage to the corner of The Cedars Avenue and Weltevreden Road where the resurfacing of Weltevreden Road is happening,’ said Potts.
‘On arrival at the scene, I was shocked at the extent of the damage and informed the City of Cape Town’s Cable Theft unit immediately,’ Potts added.
‘It would appear that they continued uninterrupted to do the damage they’ve done. I am appealing to our residents to please speak out against these hideous acts of criminality,’ said Potts.
‘This is a recurring problem not only caused by vandals and criminals, it is perpetuated because no one speaks out. This damage of infrastructure is costing the City millions to reinstate,’ said Potts.
‘We have just had the road upgrades and now we are challenged with the damage caused by this type of criminality,’ Potts added.
‘Help stop this damage caused by those who care less about our quality of life. If it is your son, daughter or neighbour, speak up. We cannot be silent on these things,’ Potts added.
In April alone, 1120 street light cables have been replaced, according to the City.
The City received 519 reports of metal theft from the public in 2023 to 2024, compared to 304 in 2022 to 2023.
‘Our message to metal thieves is simple: don’t steal cable, we will catch you. Last night in Mitchells Plain, I was pleased to see residents enthusiastically providing our metal theft officers with tip-offs of suspected stolen cable locations,’ said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis in a press statement from 10 May.
‘We also witnessed our officers bust three suspects in the act of burning cables from a nearby traffic light. Those stealing cable should also know that the City’s new Eye-in-the-sky is now watching and recording hotspots, including with infrared cameras at night,’ he added.
To report cable theft, call toll-free on 0800110077 or the City’s helpline on 021 480 7700 or 112.
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