Date: 2025-07-08 12:26:38
Man arrested for tampering with essential municipal infrastructure
ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4 July 2025
MAN ARRESTED FOR TAMPERING WITH ESSENTIAL MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE
EThekwini Metro Police, in collaboration with the Municipality’s Roads Directorate, have arrested a man for unlawfully excavating municipal infrastructure along Briardale Road, Newlands East, in an operation conducted on 4 July 2025.
The individual was found dismantling a retaining wall (G-locks) along the C1 route to create an illegal alternative access point to a private property. Upon being approached by law enforcement officers, the suspect failed to produce authorisation or a valid job card permitting such work.
“This reckless act posed a serious threat to public safety, with the potential to destabilise road infrastructure and endanger motorists. There is zero tolerance for lawlessness in our City. Offenders who tamper with essential municipal infrastructure could face serious consequences, including imprisonment of up to 15 years under national legislation,” said eThekwini Metro Police Deputy Commissioner Winnie Zama.
The arrest follows a report from a vigilant community member and reflects the City’s zero-tolerance approach to infrastructure vandalism.
In a similar case earlier this year, five men were arrested on Anton Lembede Street for unauthorised excavation to install fibre cabling.
“Tampering with municipal assets undermines access, safety, and services for all residents. The City urges the public to follow proper procedures before commencing any work involving municipal infrastructure,” added Zama.
Members of the public are reminded that any activities involving municipal infrastructure require written permission and must comply with applicable by-laws and safety protocols.
ENDS
Issued be eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.
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