Eskom has halted its services in Nkanini, Khayelitsha, in Cape Town after contractors were robbed and hijacked at gunpoint on Friday, January 10, 2025. The contractors were robbed two times in the space of 20 minutes losing their belongings and the other one was hijacked.
The first incident occurred around 1:40 pm on Ntlazane Road while the other one happened at 14:00 on Walter Sisulu Street, Makhaza. Eskom announced that they will not return to the area until their workers’ safety is assured.
The robbers took a toolbox and phones from the Eskom contractors.
Ward 95 councillor, Ayanda Tetani, expressed concern about the ongoing crime. “It’s not just Eskom; all service providers are getting robbed. These services are for the benefit of the community,” Tetani said.
Resident Mzuwabantu Sikhapha, frustrated by the power outage, shared how his family is struggling. “We’re living in the dark, and we’re forced to ask neighbors for help to heat water. We’re eating only bread, not cooking. This is not a life,” he said.
Eskom stated that delays in electricity restoration are inevitable until safety is guaranteed. They are working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and local leaders to find solutions.
Captain Frederick Van Wyk from the Makhaza SAPS confirmed the robbery and carjacking case. A white Nissan vehicle with tools was stolen but later recovered. The police are still investigating, with no arrests made.
“According to reports a 39-year-old contractor with his co-worker were hijacked at gun point by five unidentified males at the mentioned address A white Nissan NP200 with all tools and equipment (rental vehicle) were taken. The vehicle was later recovered in Gximfiza Crescent, Makhaza and taken to Bellville and booked in as exhibit and further processing. Investigations continue, no arrest as yet,” said Van Wyk.
In another incident in almost the same area, Van Wyk said a 32-year-old Eskom employee was gun pointed, and his belongings were taken away.
Eskom’s decision to suspend work has left residents in Nkanini without electricity for an extended period, as safety concerns continue to delay service restoration.
The police are calling for anyone with information about this incident to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.