Johannesburg – Five men have been arrested for unlawfully drilling boreholes in the inner city, near the intersection of Main and Fox Streets.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) said the arrests were made on Monday, (23 December 2024).
Responding to a report of unauthorised borehole drilling activity close to Nugget Street, the JMPD Tactical Response Unit caught the suspects red-handed.
“Upon further investigation, it was established that two additional buildings along Durban and Delvers streets also had unauthorised borehole drilling conducted without the necessary documentation or approval from the City of Johannesburg,” the JMPD said.
“The operator of the drilling truck at the initial site was arrested along with the individuals involved in the drilling at the other two buildings.”
Five male suspects were detained at the Johannesburg Central Police Station. They face charges linked to tampering with critical infrastructure.
The JMPD said it impounded the drilling equipment used at all three locations.
The JMPD warned that any drilling activity within the City of Johannesburg must be conducted with the necessary permits and approvals.
“Unauthorised drilling poses significant risks to underground infrastructure, including cables and pipelines,” the JMPD warned.
“The JMPD is committed to ensuring public safety and will continue to take action against individuals or entities that violate city ordinances and regulations.”
