• City Power stops all work in Alexandra after angry residents attack and seriously injure workers trying to fix power cuts.

• Violent protests leave the township without repair services as workers fear for their safety after a mob breaks a technician’s leg.

Angry Alexandra residents stormed City Power offices in Kew on Tuesday and beat up workers who were trying to fix power cuts in the township.

One technician’s leg was broken in the attack. Other workers sustained minor injuries when the mob forced their way into the building.

The protesters also damaged councillors’ offices on 8th Avenue and injured people working there.

The violence started after residents blocked roads with burning tyres to protest against power cuts.

City Power has now pulled all its workers out of Alex, leaving the township without repair services.

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said they were shocked by the attack.

“This incident, where our male technician and his colleagues were violently assaulted by protesting residents, is completely unacceptable and represents a gross violation of the rights and safety of our employees.

“We strongly condemn this criminal action. Effective immediately, we are suspending all services in Alexandra until further notice. No employees will be dispatched to work around Alexandra until law and order are restored and workers’ safety can be guaranteed,” said Mangena.

He said the mob damaged cars and attacked staff shortly after they started work.

“Most of the colleagues at the Alexandra SDC have expressed serious concerns for their safety,” he said.

Mangena said they understand people’s right to protest, but violence only makes power problems worse.

“Our technicians have been working tirelessly to address the disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions, and such protests have significantly delayed our efforts.

“We demand swift arrests of the perpetrators and urge the South African Police Service (SAPS) to increase their presence around our service delivery centre to prevent further incidents and protect our infrastructure.

“We strongly encourage community members to assist in identifying the perpetrators of this attack. We regret the consequences of this decision, but we were left with no other option,” said Mangena.

Pictured above: Alexandra residents block the road with burning tyres and debris.

Image source: Everson Luhanga