City Power warns of rising streetlight theft in north-east Joburg wards

Where incidents are occurring

The utility specifically warned about incidents affecting Ward 111, which the article identifies as covering Alexandra, Marlboro and Lombardy East. City Power said infrastructure meant to protect communities was being “stripped away”, leaving residents in darkness and increasingly vulnerable to crime.

What sparked the warning

The warning followed social media videos showing Ward 111 councillor Priscilla Supe working with Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens during operations at premises allegedly linked to stolen streetlight infrastructure. City Power praised the intervention.

Why City Power says this matters

The utility warned that removing and destroying streetlights creates opportunities for criminals and has negative effects on businesses and residents. City Power said:

“Streetlight theft is not a minor offence. It is sabotage. It is a direct attack on safety, livelihoods, and the integrity of Johannesburg as the economic heartbeat of South Africa.”

City Power added:

“When streetlights are stolen, criminals are given cover, businesses are disrupted, and families are placed at risk.”

Allegations of local involvement and legal action

The utility expressed particular concern that people living in affected communities were allegedly involved in damaging infrastructure intended for their own benefit, saying the lights are “not luxuries” but “essential for visibility, security and daily life.”

City Power warned that those found in possession of stolen infrastructure would face criminal prosecution and said:

“City Power will not tolerate this. Theft is criminality, and it will be pursued without compromise. Those found in possession of stolen infrastructure will face the full force of the law.”

The utility added: “There will be consequences. There will be arrests. There will be accountability.”

Appeal to residents and how to report

City Power urged communities to work with authorities to protect public infrastructure and to report suspicious behaviour, saying the fight “cannot be left to the authorities alone.” The utility said:

“To those engaged in this unlawful activity, the message is simple and direct: the darkness you create will not shield you. Every stolen light leaves a footprint. Every act of vandalism tightens the net. You are being watched, traced and pursued.”

Residents with information about vandalism or suspicious activity around electricity infrastructure were encouraged to contact City Power’s Security and Risk Management unit on 011 490 7900, 011 490 7911 or 011 490 7553, or to send reports via WhatsApp to 083 579 4497.

What City Power is asking of communities

• Report suspicious behaviour around streetlights and electricity infrastructure.
• Protect local public assets and reject silence when vandalism is observed.
• Share information with City Power’s Security and Risk Management unit using the provided phone numbers and WhatsApp contact.

“Protect what protects you. Keep the lights on. Do not dim your own safety,” the utility said.