Offenders to face criminal charges
Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality has vowed to take strong action and even press criminal charges against customers found tampering with the newly installed smart meters.
The municipality has installed more than 7,000 smart meters in Mlungisi and Ezibeleni so far.
Despite warnings issued to the public about the system’s ability to detect electricity theft, seven incidents of tampering have been detected.
EMLM spokesperson Lonwabo Kowa said investigations were under way. “We are currently investigating these cases, and those found guilty will face the consequences, including removal of the meters and infrastructure.
“Depending on the investigation results, criminal cases will be opened against the customer and others who are involved,” he said.
The municipality is losing almost half of its revenue due to electricity theft. Kowa said tampering undermined efforts to alleviate these losses.
“Tampering, or any other illegal act, will undermine the work done, considering that the municipality has been battling distribution losses at a rate of 49%.
The smart meters remain the most viable solution to stop electricity losses, and the municipality commends all community members supporting the initiative,” he said.
To ensure a smooth and quick installation process, the main contractor had hired 10 qualified local contractors to participate in the project.
“This has helped in ensuring that over 200 meters are installed daily,” Kowa said.
Residents are urged to cooperate with the efforts of the municipality to ensure the success of the project.
ABONGILE SOLUNDWANA
