GEORGE NEWS - Two suspects were arrested in the early hours of Thursday 22 October following a joint operation by George Municipality's Law Enforcement and the police at the Tamsui Substation.

The arrests come amid ongoing concerns over repeated theft and vandalism at the substation, which supplies electricity to businesses in George's industrial area and surrounding communities.

The suspects are being held at Conville Police Station and are expected to face charges relating to trespassing and damage to essential infrastructure.

Acting Municipal Manager Dr Dean O'Neill welcomed the arrests, praising the cooperation between municipal law enforcement officers and the police.

Prompt action and continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies are essential to protecting municipal infrastructure and addressing criminal activities that threaten essential service delivery," he said.

O'Neill warned that cable theft and vandalism could disrupt business operations, lead to costly repairs and cause prolonged power outages.

The municipality's Director of Electrical Engineering Services, Michael Rhode, also urged residents and businesses to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity around substations, electricity kiosks and other electrical installations.

"Community cooperation plays a vital role in preventing crime and protecting infrastructure that serves the public," he said.

R2 500 reward for information

George Municipality is offering a reward of R2 500 for information leading to the successful conviction of anyone responsible for electricity-related theft or vandalism.

To qualify, informants must provide their names and contact details and be willing to testify in court. The municipality has assured residents that their identities will be protected.

Suspicious activity or incidents involving municipal electrical infrastructure can be reported to SAPS or the municipality's Law Enforcement division through the Safer City Call Centre on 044 801 6350, 044 801 6310 or 044 801 6389.

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