Residents across Msukaligwa continue to face recurring electricity disruptions as incidents of cable theft reportedly increase.
Msukaligwa Local Municipality says the problem has become increasingly serious, affecting households, businesses and municipal services that depend on a stable electricity supply.
According to the municipality, the issue became more noticeable from July, with numerous areas across Msukaligwa affected and new incidents reportedly being recorded almost daily.
A stolen Medium Voltage (MV) supply cable caused a power interruption to parts of Ermelo on 18 August 2026. | Photo Msukaligwa Local Municipality.
In a media release, Executive Mayor Alderwoman M.P. Nkosi said the municipality has already spent roughly R700 000 repairing damage linked to cable theft and vandalism. This figure does not yet account for areas where repairs are still outstanding, meaning the total cost is expected to rise.
Nkosi said the continued damage has placed additional pressure on municipal finances, with funds that could have been directed towards other service delivery priorities instead being used to repeatedly repair damaged infrastructure.
She added that criminal cases have been opened in connection with the incidents, with one suspect reportedly caught wearing a fake municipal uniform while stealing cables. According to the municipality, only two suspects have been arrested so far.
Residents are being urged to report suspicious activity or provide information that could assist authorities in identifying those responsible.
Reports can be made to the:
Msukaligwa Local Municipality Call Centre
017 801 3500 or 079 503 6729
Ermelo SAPS
082 462 3845