Armed thieves attack Eskom technicians in Mabopane
Thursday, 26 May 2022: Three armed thieves attacked and robbed Eskom technicians while they were executing their duties in Mabopane Block E on Tuesday, 24 May 2022. Two other attacks on Eskom technicians took place in Mabopane and Soweto over the past three days.
Two technicians were attacked by the three armed perpetrators while they were inspecting meter boxes in Mabopane Block E. The perpetrators demanded their wallets and cell phones and took off in a vehicle without a registration number. In a separate incident in Mabopane, a technician was also robbed of a cell phone and money at a substation. On 25 May 2022, another technician was stabbed while he and his colleagues were installing meters in Nomzamo, Soweto. The technician, who was stabbed in the face and chest was treated at a medical facility and is recovering at home.
“We condemn such acts of violence against our employees in Gauteng where they are often assaulted, intimidated and placed in extreme situations such as being held hostage by some community members. This display of aggression and violence by communities often leads to employees suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. It also results in delays in repair work and project completion, further extending the period that residents spend without electricity”, says Kith Maitisa, SHEQS Manager in Gauteng.
Eskom urges all those who may be aware of any form of criminal acts to report them by calling the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722 or the South African Police Services (SAPS). The tip-offs can also be done anonymously. “We have reported all these incidents to the SAPS and we will co-operate with the police to assist with the investigations”, concluded Maitisa.
ENDS