Erongo residents urged to help curb copper cable theft

Erongo RED has launched a public awareness campaign aimed at mobilising communities across the region to help combat copper cable theft.

The distributor warned that the crime continues to disrupt electricity supply, endanger lives and place additional financial pressure on consumers.

The campaign, titled 'Be a Copper Theft Stopper', encourages residents, businesses and community leaders to report suspicious activity and work together to protect critical electricity infrastructure.

Speaking during a recent stakeholder engagement, Erongo RED chief executive officer Immanuel !Hanabeb said the theft of cables and electrical infrastructure significantly affects the utility's ability to provide a reliable electricity supply.

"Depending on the nature and extent of the damage, these practices force Erongo RED to shut down the affected substation to do the repair work, which can result in other electricity users being deprived as they must wait for hours before the repair work is completed," he said.

!Hanabeb explained that replacing stolen copper cables and conductors can take between five and 10 hours, and in some cases even longer.

"During this time, the area fed from the affected substation will be without power," he said.

Danger

Copper cable theft extends beyond the loss of valuable materials, with widespread consequences for households, businesses and public services, the company said.

Damaged infrastructure often results in prolonged power outages, affecting homes, schools, hospitals and traffic management systems.

Erongo RED warned that copper cable theft also poses significant safety hazards. Exposed electrical wires increase the risk of serious injuries or fatalities, while damaged streetlights and traffic infrastructure can compromise road safety.

The utility added that the cost of repairing and replacing stolen infrastructure ultimately places additional pressure on electricity tariffs, meaning consumers bear the financial burden of these crimes.

As part of the campaign, Erongo RED is working closely with the Namibian Police to combat copper theft and is offering incentives for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible. The utility assured the public that all information will be treated confidentially and that reports can be made anonymously.

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling, sending an SMS or WhatsApp message to 081 608 6925. Reports can also be made by calling the toll-free number 96000, contacting 081 144 2373 or reporting incidents at the nearest police station.

The power utility said preventing copper cable theft requires a collective effort from communities, businesses and other stakeholders.

"The message is clear: copper theft affects everyone, and combating this crime requires the collective commitment and cooperation of communities, businesses and stakeholders," the utility said.