Lenasia Resident Arrested for Possessing City Power Mini-Substation

A Johannesburg businessman is in custody after authorities discovered a City Power mini-substation in his Lenasia home. According to IOL, City Power officials uncovered the allegedly stolen infrastructure during a routine revenue collection operation in Lenasia. City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said the mini-substation was connected at the businessman’s residential premises. The businessman obtained the mini-substation illegally after initially applying for a three-phase meter. The missing mini-substation, valued at around R400,000, reappeared after a neighbouring business requested a grid connection through the same equipment. Additionally, authorities found a 1km-long cable on the premises, estimated at R900,000.

#LenasiaCutOff: City Power takes action in #RevenueCollection as a business owner is arrested for illegal possession and connection of a minisubstation missing for 10 years. The substation, linked by a suspected stolen 1km cable, is now repossessed and en route to City Power… pic.twitter.com/AAM4nGwC6Z

— City of Joburg (@CityofJoburgZA) February 15, 2024

Also read: City Power Technician Reported as Kidnapped Successfully Located

Despite the connection, City Power’s system did not register the electricity infrastructure. However, City Power has since disconnected and repossessed the mini-substation. Mangena highlighted concerns about illegal meters and urged businesses to arrange service agreements to avoid such situations. During the operation, several non-paying businesses were disconnected, with over R50 million owed collectively in electricity bills.

The businessman is expected to face theft charges and tampering with electricity infrastructure. Efforts to reach the Gauteng SAPS for comment are ongoing. Meanwhile, City Power continues to crack down on non-payment and illegal connections to ensure revenue collection and service integrity.

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Meter Upgrades Commence in Alex and Surrounding Suburban Areas by City Power

Picture: X / CityPowerJhb

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