Northern Cape SAPS steps up fight against essential infrastructure crimes
THE SOUTH African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is intensifying efforts to safeguard essential infrastructure as the fight against theft, vandalism and sabotage remains a top priority.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers emphasised the severe consequences of tampering with, damaging, or destroying vital infrastructure, warning that such offences carry heavy penalties under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015.
The Act also criminalises aiding or colluding with others in these illegal activities, particularly when they disrupt essential services such as electricity, water, transport, sanitation, and communication.
Colonel Ehlers warned that interfering with infrastructure that provides basic services is a serious crime, and offenders risk facing harsh prison sentences if convicted.
To curb these crimes, the SAPS is urging residents and businesses to strengthen their security measures. Recommended precautions include:
- Installing physical barriers such as fences, impact-resistant glass, and high-security locks and doors.
- Improving visibility with bright security lighting inside and outside the property.
- Repairing vandalised property immediately to deter further damage.
- Setting up video surveillance for real-time monitoring.
- Employing security guards or hiring private security companies.
Colonel Ehlers also urged the public to report any suspicious activity or incidents related to essential infrastructure damage. Reports can be submitted anonymously via the MySAPS app or by calling Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
She noted that the protection of critical infrastructure is not just a police matter, it’s a community effort.
