City Power has cut off all electricity supply to the Riverpark community in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg.
The power utility said the move followed clashes with residents during a meter audit and disconnection operation in the area.
On Wednesday, residents marched to its offices in Bramley, claiming power was unfairly cut off to the area and without any consultation.
City Power
Yesterday, the utility targeted 470 households that it said have no recorded electricity purchases and 367 customers with low vending patterns, which it said is indicative of meter tampering.
“This action comes after numerous engagements and warnings regarding illegal connections and meter tampering in the area. However, those warnings have been met with contempt,” said spokesperson Isaac Mangena.
“Our teams were met with hostility when they arrived in the area. Roads were barricaded with debris and our staff were also threatened, obstructed and nearly held hostage by the residents.”
However, the residents disputed this, as spokesperson George Moloi explained.
“There was no vandalism. Everybody was calm. Everybody was actually chanting outside the gate. There were no fights, there was no burning of tyres. We need City Power to respect us, the residents of Riverpark.”
In other news – Halala! Oscar Mbo and his partner Lerato welcome their new baby
Congratulations are in order for the popular South African record producer, Oscar Mbo, and his partner, Lerato, after they announced the arrival of their bundle of joy.
Taking to his social media timeline, Oscar posted pictures from a pregnancy photo shoot and a heartwarming moment in the delivery room, where he cradled his newborn while wearing scrubs. “A faithful God. Glory!” Oscar captioned the emotional post, expressing his gratitude and joy. Read More
