Nelson Mandela Bay Cracks Down on High-Value Electricity Defaulters

In a dramatic enforcement operation, the Nelson Mandela Bay MMC for Electricity targeted high-value properties with overdue electricity accounts, signaling a tough stance against municipal arrears.

"If you own four or five lavish homes but avoid paying, we will find you," the MMC declared. At one Summerstrand guesthouse, officials uncovered no meter box—just an illegal isolator siphoning free electricity.

R7.5 Billion Electricity Crisis

The metro disclosed staggering arrears of R7.5 billion, nearly 40% of its R20 billion budget.

"This is stolen money meant to serve residents," said the MMC.

Three properties owned by the same individual were targeted, two of which had tampered connections hiding true electricity usage.

READ: NERSA Error Forces Steeper Electricity Price Hikes for South Africans in 2026 and 2027

Breaking Down Doors to Enforce Compliance

Metro Police were forced to enter properties after tenants refused access. At one Humewood residence, officers dismantled gates to uncover another illegal connection.

"They think they’re smarter than us," the MMC scoffed, emphasizing the metro’s determination to recover lost revenue.

READ: Municipalities in Crisis: The R126 Fixed Charge Debate and South Africa's Electricity Dilemma

Legal Repercussions

Tampering with electricity infrastructure violates the Electricity Regulation Act, carrying potential fines or jail time.

The MMC vowed strict enforcement:
"No more payment plans for thieves."

This crackdown highlights the municipality’s commitment to protecting public resources and ensuring fair service delivery for all residents.