Eskom technicians robbed in Mabopane, Soweto
There have been a spate of attacks on Eskom technicians in Gauteng over the past three days, the utility says.
On Tuesday, technicians were attacked and robbed in Mabopane, north of Pretoria, less than 24 hours after a similar incident in Soweto on Monday.
The Mobopane robbery took place while the technicians were inspecting meter boxes in Block E.
Eskom spokesperson Amanda Qithi says the suspects demanded wallets and cell phones.
"On Wednesday, another technician was stabbed while he and his colleagues were installing meters in Nomzamo, Soweto. "
She adds that the technician, who was stabbed in the face and chest, was treated at a medical facility and is recovering at home.
Eskom's safety, health, environment and quality manager in Gauteng, Kith Maitisa says this display of aggression and violence by communities often leads to employees suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety.
“We condemn such acts of violence against our employees in Gauteng where they are often assaulted, intimidated and placed in extreme situations such as being held hostage by some community members."
"It also results in delays in repair work and project completion, further extending the period that residents spend without electricity.”
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