Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Richard van Wyk and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL. See attached video here.
The DA in Trompsburg, Kopanong Ward 2, has raised concerns with the Municipal Manager about ongoing cable theft and called for an investigation into reported incidents, improved protection of municipal infrastructure, and measures to safeguard residents.
Of particular concern is a reported incident in which an elderly resident of Trompsburg Town allegedly witnessed individuals cutting cables in broad daylight directly in front of his home.
When he reportedly attempted to intervene, he was threatened with death.
If confirmed, this incident highlights the risks residents face when trying to protect public infrastructure and underscores the need to ensure people can live safely in their own neighbourhoods.
Cable theft is not just damaged infrastructure. It can disrupt essential services, increase costs for the municipality and taxpayers, and create dangerous conditions for residents. The threat reportedly made against an elderly resident makes the need for an appropriate response even more urgent.
The DA calls on the relevant authorities to investigate the reported incident, address the resident’s safety concerns, and take appropriate action against anyone found involved in criminal activity.
We further call for stronger measures to protect municipal infrastructure, improved reporting and response mechanisms, and appropriate cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the municipality to prevent further incidents.
Residents should not have to risk their personal safety to protect critical public infrastructure. Every resident deserves to live in a community where criminal activity is investigated and where safety concerns are taken seriously.
The DA will continue to raise community concerns through the appropriate channels and seek accountability and practical interventions to address the problem.
We encourage residents who witness cable theft or other suspicious activity to report it to the South African Police Service and the relevant municipal authorities.
On 4 November, residents of Trompsburg, Ward 2, can vote for DA candidate Zozo Leeuw, who will fight for safer communities and protect municipal infrastructure to ensure Trompsburg Works For All.