The City of Johannesburg has stepped up its efforts to tackle illegal electricity connections and the use of bypassed prepaid meters.
This comes as part of an ongoing operation aimed at cleaning up the city’s power infrastructure, ensuring that residents pay for the electricity they consume, and reducing the risks that come with tampering.
Disconnections Across City Deep and Kliptown Square
On January 20, 2025, the City Power utility disconnected 122 housing units in City Deep, located at the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO).
These homes were found to have illegally bypassed the newly installed prepaid meters.
This operation is part of a wider initiative that recently saw 120 housing units in Kliptown Square also disconnected for similar offenses.
Penalties for Meter Tampering
Residents who were found guilty of bypassing prepaid meters face hefty fines ranging from R14,000 to over R30,000, depending on the type of connection.
The fines are meant to cover the costs of replacing the tampered meters, with single-phase connections facing penalties of at least R14,000, while three-phase connections can incur penalties exceeding R30,000.
City Power Investigates Employees’ Involvement in Illegal Activity
The City Power statement also revealed that some of their own employees and contractors may be implicated in these illegal activities.
According to the report, some customers have reported that City Power staff members were involved in bypassing the meters for a fee, ranging from R2,000 to R5,000.
The City has warned residents not to get involved with these criminals, as they will face the penalties for meter tampering themselves.
City Power Stands Firm Against Meter Tampering
City Power has made it clear that meter tampering will not be tolerated.
The utility emphasized that these illegal connections pose significant safety risks to residents and cause considerable revenue loss.
They have urged customers to avoid paying anyone to tamper with their meters and to report any suspicious activities immediately.
Residents who encounter individuals offering to bypass prepaid meters are encouraged to contact City Power’s Security Risk Management team at 011 490 7900/7911 or send a WhatsApp message to 083 579 4497.
Community’s Role in Reporting Illegal Connections
The City continues to stress the importance of public cooperation in tackling electricity theft.
By reporting illegal connections and individuals tampering with meters, residents can help ensure a safer and more reliable power supply for everyone.
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