Cable Theft Suspects Exchange Gunfire With City Power Security in Reuven

Shootout During Theft Attempt

City Power’s tactical team responded swiftly after learning about the break-in. Upon their arrival, the suspects opened fire. Security officers responded by discharging five rounds during the exchange, resulting in the thieves fleeing the scene and abandoning the stolen cables. None of City Power’s personnel were injured in the altercation.

Immediate Response and Ongoing Investigation

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and City Power Security immediately attended the scene. An investigation has been initiated to identify and apprehend the two suspects involved in the incident.

Condemnation of Violence and Commitment to Security

City Power Acting CEO Charles Tlouane strongly condemned the attack on security staff, emphasizing that attempts to intimidate or endanger staff would not deter ongoing efforts to safeguard the city’s electricity infrastructure. “City Power strongly condemns this attack and will not allow violence or intimidation to deter our security teams or weaken our resolve,” he stated.

Recent Crackdown on Infrastructure Crime

This latest incident came shortly after the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court sentenced two individuals to fifteen years’ imprisonment for tampering with electricity infrastructure in Turffontein, related to a case from September 5. In a separate incident, another suspect was arrested on Sunday along Heronmere Road in Reuven for possession of stolen copper cable. Preliminary findings in both cases highlighted the use of breaches in perimeter walls as an entry point for these crimes.

Enhancing Security at Critical Sites

The spike in attacks has brought renewed focus on the vulnerabilities of critical electricity sites, particularly when perimeter infrastructure suffers damage. City Power stated it will prioritise repairs and reinforce security interventions at such facilities to prevent unlawful access.

Over R235 million has already been invested during the 2025/2026 financial year to repair and restore infrastructure lost or damaged due to theft and vandalism. City Power is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen security measures, improve theft detection, and push for thorough investigations into ongoing infrastructure-related crimes.

Community Collaboration Vital

Communities are urged to play an active role by reporting suspicious activity around substations, transformers, cable routes, or any electricity installations. Strong partnerships between the public, City Power, and law enforcement remain key in the ongoing fight against infrastructure-related criminal activity.

As incidents of cable theft continue to impact residents and essential services, City Power’s intensified efforts to secure its assets and bring offenders to justice aim to protect Johannesburg’s power supply and community well-being.