Stolen streetlight cables put Umhlathuze in R1m hole
The City of Umhlathuze is asking for assistance from its residents as it tries to get to the bottom of stolen streetlight cables.
It says the incidents have recently spiked with low voltage cables seemingly the common target.
Municipal spokesperson Bongani Gina says those behind the act even go as far as disguising themselves as contractors using fake uniforms and even return to close up any trenches dug up.
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He says this is costing the emerging municipality.
"The affected areas are Aquadene, Arboretum, Meerensee and others. About 2.5 km of street light cables have been stolen. It has cost the city more than R1 million."
Gina says residents who spot any suspicious activity can immediately alert the municipality.
"We would encourage citizens if there are suspicious situations that they can report to our call centre on 035 907 5000 or 08 00 222 827."
