Johannesburg – A gang of seven daring thieves overpowered two security guards at Bellevue Substation and tied them up before attempting to steal copper cables only to be repelled by City Power’s backup team.
The incident on Sunday night, (10 November 2024), culminated in an exchange of gunfire between City Power’s backup team and the armed robbers.
Two robbers were eventually apprehended. The others fled empty the scene.
Commenting on the shooting incident, City Power said it, “condemns, in the strongest terms, the violent and brazen attack on two of its security officers at the Bellevue Substation”.
Spokesperson Isaac Mangena, added: “This disturbing incident is part of a concerning pattern of recent attacks on City Power employees, highlighting the increasing risks faced by those tasked with ensuring the city’s power supply remains uninterrupted”.
Mangena said the brazen attack occurred when the two security officers, who were patrolling the substation, were overpowered by the assailants, tied up, and forced to lie face down on the ground.
“When the officers failed to respond during their midnight patrol and their communications went silent, the City Power Control Room Operator acted swiftly and dispatched a response team to the scene,” Mangena said.
“Upon arrival, the team found the suspects attempting to steal 52 metres of 3-core copper cable, which had been left on-site by contractors.
“The suspects immediately opened fire on the response team, leading to a violent exchange of gunfire.
“Fortunately, the City Power team was able to repel the attackers, resulting in the capture of two suspects, aged 38 and 50, while five others fled the scene.”
Both arrested suspects have been detained at Yeoville Police Station and are set to appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, (12 November 2024).
The arrested suspects face charges of tampering with essential infrastructure, robbery, and attempted murder.
“This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous and often violent criminal activities that continue to target City Power employees,” said Mangena.
“The company reiterates its commitment to the safety and security of all its staff and operations.”
The escalating trend of attacks on employees is deeply concerning, and City Power is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators face the full force of the law.
At least 33.5 metres of stolen copper cable was traced to Reuven Salvage Yard, where it was recovered.
On 28 October 2024, two City Power contractors, conducting an authorised meter audit at 260 Colette Drive in Alexandra, were unlawfully detained and held hostage by local tenants despite clearly identifying themselves with professional credentials.
The contractors were locked inside the property, denied exit, and subjected to a harrowing ordeal simply for performing their duties.
“Although they were ultimately released unharmed, the incident raises serious concerns about the safety of City Power personnel in the region,” Mangena said.
The broader context of this crisis is even more troubling.
City Power has faced a sharp increase in violent attacks against its workforce, with more than 18 documented incidents in 2024.
These incidents include not only hostage situations but also hijackings, robberies, and other violent acts, all of which undermine the company’s ability to maintain vital service delivery.
Mangena said the growing trend of violence in Alexandra and the Inner City “was especially alarming”.
He said last month, on 31 October 2024, City Power was forced to temporarily withdraw technicians who had been working to repair a damaged electricity pole after four unknown males approached the two electricians who were inside a stationary vehicle at the corner of 2nd Avenue and London Road in Alexandra.
“The four suspects robbed our workers of their personal belongings including cellphones and wallets at gunpoint and then fled from the scene,” lamented Mangena.
A case of armed robbery was reported to the South African Police Service.
City Power has also documented several hostile encounters in other Johannesburg townships, with incidents in Modderfontein, Robertsham, and Kathrada.
Additionally, incidents of hijacking and theft have occurred across multiple areas, including Tulisa Park, Lenasia, and Rosettenville.
In each case, valuable equipment was stolen, exacerbating delays in service recovery.
Tshifularo Mashava, City Power CEO, said: “These attacks on our staff are utterly unacceptable. Our contractors and employees are working to ensure that communities receive the essential services they rely on.
“It is essential that we create a safe environment where dialogue, not violence, is the solution to any grievances.
“We cannot continue to operate in an environment where our employees’ safety is constantly at risk.
“The community must understand that these brazen attacks only prolong service disruptions and compromise the quality of life for all residents.
“It is imperative that we work together to restore trust and security.”
