Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English by Luan Snyders
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Rustenburg has written to key oversight authorities to demand urgent intervention in the ongoing vandalism of critical electrical infrastructure in the city.
Correspondence has been addressed to Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police in the National Assembly, as well as Freddy Sonakile, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management in the North West Provincial Legislature (see letter).
This escalation follows the continued failure to secure arrests despite numerous cases being opened with the South African Police Service (SAPS). The persistent theft and destruction of electrical infrastructure has left communities in prolonged darkness, disrupted economic activity, and placed additional strain on an already collapsing local grid (see photo).
The DA Rustenburg has called for:
- The immediate involvement of SAPS Crime Intelligence to investigate possible organised criminal syndicates;
- National prioritisation of infrastructure-related crimes;
- A coordinated, multi-sphere law enforcement response;
- Accountability from local SAPS on the status of all reported cases.
The pattern and scale of these crimes indicate a well-coordinated network operating without consequence. This is no longer a localised issue it requires decisive national and provincial intervention.
The DA will continue to apply pressure at all levels of government to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that critical infrastructure is protected.
Residents deserve safety, stability, and reliable service delivery. We will not relent until this crisis is addressed.