Illegal Electricity Connections Widespread in Enoch Mgijima as Arrests Stay Low

Illegal electricity connections remain widespread across Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, with arrests and convictions related to electricity theft reported as low.

The municipality has identified a high prevalence of illegal connections within parts of its electricity network. These connections are linked to both financial and safety risks affecting the local power distribution system.

High Prevalence Identified

The municipality notes that illegal connections form part of ongoing operational challenges within the electricity function. Arrests and convictions linked to electricity theft remain low, contributing to enforcement difficulties.

Illegal connections are associated with revenue losses and increased strain on infrastructure, particularly within areas where network control is limited.

Financial Impact

Electricity-related financial pressures remain significant. Revenue shortfalls and bulk electricity payment obligations continue to affect the municipality’s overall electricity operations.

Illegal connections and tampering are identified as contributing factors to non-technical electricity losses within the system.

Safety Concerns

Safety risks are also highlighted in relation to electricity infrastructure. Defective equipment, open pillar boxes and faulty substations increase exposure to electrocution risks in certain areas.

Illegal connections can further elevate safety hazards by placing additional load on infrastructure that is not designed for unauthorised connections.

Risk Management Measures

The municipality has indicated that measures such as smart meter implementation and infrastructure upgrades form part of broader efforts to strengthen revenue collection and improve network control.

The issue of illegal electricity connections is categorised as a high-risk area within the municipality’s electricity management framework. The document does not specify the number of illegal connections identified.

The information is contained in the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality 2024/2025 Annual Report (ITEM 1/2026) tabled before Council.