When a suspected cable thief was found dead next to a transformer at Tshino Thondoni, outside Vuwani, on Monday morning, few local residents felt pity. The area has been plagued by cable theft in recent times.
Community leader Dr Titus Nemaungani, who is also the general secretary of the local SANCO branch, said he had received a call at around 07:00 and rushed to the scene.
"On arrival, I found this man lying dead. He had tools, including large cutting pliers, suggesting he was attempting to cut cables when he was electrocuted. We tried to identify him, but it seems he is from another village," he said. Nemaungani highlighted the significant impact of cable theft on the community.
"Criminals roam here at will. We are constantly at their mercy, and they show no concern for the suffering they cause. Many metres of cable are stolen each week, and they are very expensive to replace. Families go without electricity for long periods because of these thefts. It makes life miserable as we can't store perishables, which go bad, and we are forced to look for firewood despite having stoves in our homes," he said.
Nemaungani expressed hope that the incident would serve as a deterrent to potential cable thieves. He also believes the man who was electrocuted did not act alone. "His accomplices must have fled the scene after the incident. As community leaders, we urge residents to remain vigilant. They should ensure that outside lights are always on to prevent criminals from hiding. Residents should also lower their music volumes to be able to hear suspicious movements in their yards," he said.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident, stating that the deceased was currently unidentified. "Anyone who can assist the police in identifying the deceased or provide any information regarding this case is urged to contact the investigating officer, Const Maake, at (072) 360-1828," he said.