Pretoria: Eskom security guard shot during supply restoration repairs

A security guard contracted by Eskom has been wounded after being shot by while escorting technicians in Mabopane, Tshwane earlier this week.

According to the power utility, this is the third incident in the area during which workers are attacked and robbed while working to ensure electricity supply in Mabopane. Eskom further said it was concerning and disappointing that community members had mobilised and threatened technicians while conducting repairs on the site.

“It is concerning that our employees now require to be escorted while carrying out their duties to ensure that reliable supply of electricity is provided to the communities,” says Kith Maitisa, Safety, Health, Environment, Quality and Security Manager in Gauteng.

ESKOM REPORTS SECURITY GUARD’S SHOOTING TO POLICE

Eskom has since reported the security guard’s shooting to the Mabopane Police Station. The guard was rushed to the local medical facility where he was treated for a gunshot wound and discharged the next day.

According to the utility, the incident happened while the Eskom technicians were replacing a cable to restore supply in Mabopane Block D. A vehicle with four occupants stopped next to the security officer and two armed occupants got out of their vehicle shot and disarmed him of his service firearm.

Eskom has no choice but to withdraw its services in communities where its employees are threatened, and their safety is compromised.

“While we condemn this violent behaviour meted against our employees and urge communities to refrain from such acts of criminality, we are grateful that this incident did not result in a loss of life and that our colleague is at least recovering at home”

Kith Maitisa, Eskom Safety, Health, Environment, Quality and Security Manager