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The O.R. Tambo District Municipality has condemned a sabotage incident at its nearly completed R79 million Disaster Management Centre, which occurred in the early hours of 07 September morning. Around 03h10, intruders entered the site, tampered with newly installed exterior lighting, and left live cables exposed. The incident has been reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to the municipality, the intruders targeted the Disaster Management Centre — a critical project designed to coordinate rapid responses to natural disasters such as floods and storms.
The criminals damaged electrical systems by pulling down lights and leaving live wires hanging dangerously.
“This is not petty theft; it is sabotage of development,” the municipality stated. “Every time criminals vandalise public infrastructure, they steal progress and endanger lives.”
The attack has raised concerns about the recurring pattern of vandalism that continues to undermine public works across the district.
OFFICIAL RESPONSE
The municipality confirmed that the SAPS is investigating the incident and that security at the construction site has been reinforced.
O.R. Tambo District officials said the centre represents a turning point in disaster preparedness, aimed at reducing response times and saving lives during emergencies.
In a strongly worded statement, officials linked the vandalism to broader challenges facing local governance:
“Budgets meant for new water schemes, clinics, and roads are being diverted to repairs. Progress stalls, and communities later ask why taps stay dry or services arrive late,” the statement read.
Municipal leadership reaffirmed their commitment to finishing the centre, warning that sabotage of public assets will not be tolerated.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The damage has sparked frustration among residents who have witnessed similar incidents in the past — from stolen pumps and cut water pipes to vandalised water schemes that left entire villages without supply.
“Every stolen pipe, cable, or light delays water, delays safety, and steals hope from your own family,” read the public statement urging citizens to protect shared infrastructure.
Local leaders have called on the public to report vandalism and protect community assets, stressing that every act of destruction slows service delivery.
The Disaster Management Centre remains a key component of the district’s plan to stabilize finances, restore water systems, and improve public safety.
