Pretoria, March 6, 2026 – The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has arrested two Nigerian nationals caught red-handed tampering with a critical electricity distribution box in Pretoria’s bustling CBD, sparking outrage over rising infrastructure sabotage.
Acting on a tip-off around 8 PM Friday, TMPD patrol officers swooped on Church Street near the Union Buildings. The suspects, aged 28 and 32, were allegedly using makeshift tools to bypass metering systems on an Eskom substation box, aiming to siphon free electricity for illegal connections. Tools including pliers, wire cutters, and insulated gloves littered the scene, confirming their intent.
TMPD spokesperson Isaac Mahamba confirmed: “This brazen act endangered lives and disrupted power supply to nearby businesses and homes. Tampering with electricity infrastructure is a serious crime under the Electricity Regulation Act, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.”
The duo, identified as Chukwudi Okoro and Emmanuel Nwosu, both undocumented foreigners, face charges of electricity theft, vandalism, and immigration violations. Preliminary investigations link them to similar incidents in Sunnyside and Hatfield, where power outages have plagued residents amid Eskom’s load-shedding woes.
Community leader Pastor Thabo Mthembu hailed the arrest: “These acts fuel crime and instability. We urge vigilance to protect our city.” TMPD has ramped up night patrols in high-risk areas, vowing zero tolerance.
Eskom estimates national electricity theft costs R20 billion annually, exacerbating blackouts. Authorities call on residents to report suspicious activity via the TMPD hotline: 012 358 9999.
This incident underscores Pretoria’s vulnerability to foreign-linked syndicates preying on strained utilities. Stay alert, Tshwane—your tips keep our city powered and safe