City Power has intensified efforts to combat illegal electricity usage in Johannesburg, disconnecting over 120 housing units in City Deep for bypassed prepaid meters. This action is part of an ongoing operation that follows a similar operation last week in Kliptown Square, where more than 120 newly installed prepaid meters were also removed. These disconnections are part of City Power’s strategy to address the growing issue of electricity theft and meter tampering.
The disconnections in City Deep took place on Monday, following an update of prepaid meters in the area in November 2024. Isaac Mangena, a spokesperson for City Power, highlighted the utility’s concern over the increasing number of bypassed meters, emphasizing that despite multiple warnings, some individuals continue to engage in this illegal activity.
During a similar operation in Kliptown Square, City Power removed 122 prepaid meters and 114 circuit breakers to prevent illegal reconnection. The utility has imposed substantial fines on customers found to have tampered with their meters, with penalties exceeding R14,000 for single-phase connections. For properties with three-phase connections, the fines could surpass R30,000, covering the cost of replacing the tampered meters.
Mangena stressed that City Power was taking a more aggressive approach, including audits and the removal of bypassed meters, to tackle the issue. The utility is also investigating leads involving contractors and even some staff members who are suspected of being involved in meter bypassing, with charges ranging from R2,000 to R5,000.
The power utility has also warned customers against colluding with individuals offering illegal connections or bypassing services. Mangena pointed out that anyone found participating in these activities would face penalties, and tampering with meters is a criminal offence.
City Power strongly advised customers not to pay technicians or contractors to bypass meters, as doing so could lead to severe consequences. If anyone is approached with an illegal offer, they are encouraged to report it immediately to City Power’s Security Risk Management team via phone or WhatsApp.
This heightened enforcement reflects City Power’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of its services and reducing the financial impact of electricity theft on honest customers. The utility continues to urge all residents to report any illegal activities related to electricity connections, ensuring a safer and fairer energy distribution for all.
