What sparked the protests in Northcrest?

Violent protests broke out in Northcrest, Mthatha, after the King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Municipality disconnected electricity services due to non-payment. Protesters burned tyres and blocked key roads, including John Beer Drive and Nqadu Road.

However, Executive Mayor Nyaniso Nelani says the unrest is linked to criminal sabotage, not just unpaid bills.

“This is not merely non-payment; it is systematic theft of services and criminal damage,” said Mayor Nelani.

The flats in question fall under the Department of Public Works. Despite multiple engagements, the municipality says the department failed to respond to a proposed payment plan.

What did officials find during inspections?

A municipal investigation revealed that:

• 90% of tenants had tampered with electricity meters
• Illegal connections were made directly from mini substations
• Several distribution boards were damaged

The municipality has confirmed that no reconnections will happen until fines are paid in full. There will be no exceptions.

Mayor’s warning to protesters

The Executive Mayor issued a warning to those engaging in vandalism and obstruction of traffic:

“We have begun working on leads, and arrests will be made,” he said.

He added that damaging infrastructure to force reconnection is a serious criminal offence and will be dealt with accordingly.

Non-payment by state departments under fire

The Mayor also criticised several government departments for failing to pay rates, which affects revenue and service delivery.

Outstanding municipal payers include:

• Botha Sigcawu
• KD Building
• Trinset
• Norwood Flats
• Southridge
• Mthatha Primary
• Other CBD properties under Public Works

KSD pledges continued service despite setbacks

Mayor Nelani reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to improving infrastructure and maintaining law and order.

“The era of arrangements is over. Law-abiding residents deserve better,” he said.

He urged national departments and communities to pay outstanding rates, warning that further delays will result in strict action.