WATCH | City Power security engages in shootout with cable thieves amid Joburg fire

M1 fire

Cape Town – City Power officials engaged in a shootout with suspected cable thieves near the M1 bridge in Johannesburg, where an underground tunnel fire occurred.

The Johannesburg CBD experienced an unforeseen underground cable fire near the north double-decker on the M1 in the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in smoke dispersal throughout the city.

The incident caused power disruptions in various areas, leaving numerous residents concerned.

Robert Mulaudzi, spokesperson for Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS), said at the time that the affected cables supplied electricity to Braamfontein and adjacent regions, as reported by TimesLIVE.

Mulaudzi noted that the fire impacted sections of the highway, particularly Smith Street.

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said during an interview with Newzroom Afrika that despite the damage, thieves attempted to steal burnt cables, leading to the confrontation.

“Last night, City Power’s security team had to exchange fire with criminals living in a makeshift squatter camp under the M1 along Carr Street, after they were found busy attempting to steal the cable that got burnt during the fire.

“A substantial amount of cable had already been cut and put in recycling bags, but the security personnel managed to recover all of it. Fortunately, no one was injured. A criminal complaint has been lodged with the South African Police Service (SAPS),” Mangena said.

Electricity has since been restored in some parts of Braamfontein, with assessments ongoing in other affected areas, he said.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

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