Residents in Lenasia South, Johannesburg, report that vandalised streetlights are contributing to increased crime and limiting daily activities ahead of the November local government elections.
Driving along Nirvana Drive in Lenasia South, many street poles stand rusted and bent with empty boxes where copper wiring was once housed. Residents say the lack of lighting has created dark conditions that enable theft and muggings.
Zarina Motala, a longtime resident and Johannesburg Crisis Alliance member, noted that some lights have remained out for four years. She added that repair claims often go unaddressed despite repeated calls.
City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said theft of cables and components is the main obstacle, leading to longer restoration times and insurance processes. The utility reported average repair times of 2.1 days in late 2025, though residents dispute these figures.
Business owner Jamiel Mohamed described repeated targeting of premises, including R22,000 in copper stolen from his store, forcing businesses to hire armed security. Councillor Yakoob Karolia reported no improvement in parts of the area unlit for eight years.