Copper Theft Scandal: City Power Employees Arrested, 15 Face Disciplinary Action

City Power Crackdown: 7 Arrests for Copper Theft In Johannesburg

City Power Johannesburg has intensified its crackdown on cable thieves. This follows the arrests of seven suspects including three employees in a major raid on Mandela Day 18 July 2025. The arrests have again highlighted the serious impact of infrastructure thefts on the electricity supply. Moreover, it affects service delivery and safety across the city.

Arrests on Mandela Day – Employees caught red-handed

In a joint police operation, officers apprehended seven suspects at the Reuven Services Delivery Centre after catching them attempting to smuggle approximately 880 pieces of suspected stolen copper.These were worth an estimated R200 000. They were using a vehicle branded by City Power.

The suspects included a trade assistant, cleaner, and Expanded Public Works Programme worker who were all employed by City Power. The suspects had hidden the copper in boxes and loaded it onto a vehicle. Officers discovered the copper before the group could leave, leading to their arrest.

Authorities are holding the suspects at Jeppe SAPS on charges of theft and possession of suspected stolen goods.

Internal Response and Disciplinary Action

City Power CEO Tshifularo Mahava expressed his disappointment following the arrests. This was particularly due to the involvement of employees. “The involvement of employees in copper theft is deeply disappointing. She stated that authorities had entrusted these individuals with the responsibility of protecting infrastructure. However, they chose to betray this trust.

In the course of internal investigations, fifteen City Power employees face disciplinary actions in relation to theft and sabotage incidents across Johannesburg. The utility reiterated its zero tolerance approach towards corruption and criminal activity within its ranks.

Repeat Incidents – The Observatory Substation Case

This latest case follows a previous copper theft incident that occurred on February 20,25. Six contract workers had been arrested at the Observatory substation. During a routine check, authorities found 129.5kg of stolen copper cables. An additional 11 kg was found nearby.

The arrestees were temporary contractors and not City Power employees. They have been prosecuted. These repeated incidents highlight the threat of copper theft and the need for continued enforcement.

The Cost of Copper Theft in Johannesburg’s Power Grid

Copper theft continues to have a devastating effect on Johannesburg’s electricity infrastructure. Frequent power outages and expensive repairs have led to significant losses. Additionally, this causes public dissatisfaction. In some regions, essential public services, including hospitals and schools, experienced disruptions as well.

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena stated that infrastructure crime is a serious threat to economic activity, public security, and service delivery in the city. He encouraged the communities to be vigilant. He emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activities promptly.

Enhanced Community Involvement and Security

City Power, in response to the increasing incidents, has increased its collaboration efforts with SAPS. They have also deployed additional Inspections. It introduced new Surveillance Technologies at substations and depots. These include CCTV cameras, stricter access controls, and employee tracking protocols.

Mangena reaffirmed that “City Power will work hand-in-hand” with law enforcement and stakeholders in the community. They aim to dismantle both internal and external theft gangs.

Advice for Employees and Residents

City Power encourages its staff and the public to:

• Report Suspicious Activities: Notify City Power or the police immediately if you notice unfamiliar individuals or vehicles around substations and electrical equipment.
• Protect Public Infrastructure Residents and community watch groups are encouraged to monitor vulnerable sites.
• Understand The Consequences Employees who are involved in theft will face dismissal or criminal prosecution. Civilians who aid and abet copper theft could also be arrested.
• Contact Authorities Use the City Power Hotline (0800 003 2501), or SAPS for anonymous reporting of crimes.

Also read our article on Knowing Your Rights and the JMPD Officers Arrested for Corruption.

A Long Term Battle

The theft of copper remains a serious challenge for Johannesburg, with tens of thousands of incidents reported each year. Theft and vandalism continue to undermine the reliability of service delivery. This is despite numerous arrests and prosecutions.

City Power’s recent operations, such as the July 18 arrests, and earlier substation bust mark significant steps towards combating this criminal activity. CEO Mashava assured residents. He confirmed that the utility would “pursue any offenders, both internally and externally, with no fear or favor.”

City Power hopes that by eliminating corruption and strengthening oversight. It aims to rebuild public confidence and maintain essential services to all Johannesburg residents.