District records 86 infrastructure vandalism cases

The Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality has recorded 86 cases of infrastructure vandalism and related crimes since 2013, with 41 of those cases reported in the Ditsobotla Local Municipality.

The figures were highlighted during a meeting convened by Executive Mayor Khumalo Molefe with district management of the South African Police Service (SAPS), led by District Commissioner General Matlhapi Mmolawa. The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration to address escalating incidents of infrastructure vandalism, cable theft and related material theft across the district.

According to the municipality, the criminal activities continue to disrupt essential service delivery, including water and sewer systems.

Infrastructure vandalism and cable theft have resulted in significant financial losses and prolonged service interruptions affecting communities.

Municipal officials said the acts undermine development, compromise public safety and erode public confidence in municipal services.

During the meeting, the municipality and SAPS agreed that the municipality will form part of a District Joint Operational Meeting to be held monthly. The parties also committed to enhanced intelligence sharing between the municipal security manager and SAPS, targeted operations in identified crime hotspots, and strengthened action against illegal scrap metal operations.

Molefe said infrastructure vandalism must be treated as economic sabotage because it directly affects residents’ livelihoods and well-being.

“The theft of municipal infrastructure is not just a crime against government; it is a crime against our communities. We are committed to working closely with SAPS to ensure that those responsible are brought to book and that our infrastructure is protected,” said Molefe.

The municipality and SAPS further committed to holding bi-monthly review meetings to monitor progress and assess the impact of joint operations.

Residents have been urged to report suspicious activities related to infrastructure vandalism to SAPS or the Municipal Call Centre.

“The Municipality remains resolute in protecting public assets and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery to all communities,” Molefe concluded.