Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News, 2014-06-23

Two people have been arrested for allegedly stealing electricity pylons in Lenasia, south of Johannesburg, City Power said on Monday.

The theft of the pylons earlier this month cost City Power R20 million, it said in a statement.

The two were arrested at the weekend after allegedly being found in possession of the materials. The two were allegedly committing another crime when a citizen’s arrest was made.

“City Power officials spotted suspicious activity while they were patrolling the vicinity of where the pylons were stolen,” it said.

“Upon investigating, they noticed one of the suspects on top of the pylon unbolting the nuts from the lattices, while his accomplice was keeping watch underneath. City Power officials approached them and effected a citizen’s arrest.”

Authorities were alerted.

“The apprehension of the two suspects follows extensive intelligence work done by City Power’s investigating team,” it said.

“The intelligence teams were deployed in the area to conduct reconnaissance and gather intelligence about a syndicate operating in the area.”

The theft of electricity pylons on June 5 led to power outages in Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Klipspruit, Nancefield, Devland, and surrounding areas.

The two are being held at the Lenasia police station.

– Sapa

(Twitter: @Faizie143)