About 3,000 illegal electricity connections were removed during a joint operation in Tembisa on Wednesday, 18 February. The operation was carried out at Ehlanzeni Cemetery and surrounding areas.

Officers from the EMPD Anti-Cable Theft Unit northern region, the First Response Unit, POPs Unit and Northern Region precincts took part. They were joined by the Energy Revenue Enhancement Team, SAPS officers, Calvin Family Security and Energy Operations and Maintenance.

The teams worked together to disconnect unlawful connections that were diverting electricity from the grid. A total of 3,000 illegal connections were removed. Authorities said such operations are aimed at protecting infrastructure and reducing electricity losses in the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.

Illegal connections are often blamed for power outages, damaged infrastructure and safety risks to residents.