A man has died after being electrocuted at the Mechanical Workshop Substation in Roodepoort in what is suspected to be a failed case of attempted theft or vandalism.

City Power spokeswoman Issac Mangena stated that the suspect’s body, which has burned beyond recognition, was found inside the station on Tuesday morning when City Power employees reported for duty. “It’s still unclear what he tampered with that triggered the electric shock. From preliminary information, it appears as though he broke one of the steel doors and forced entry.”

“The station was severely vandalized, and it could require new switchgear and/or Ring Main Units (RMU).”

The substation has since been isolated to allow authorities to carry out their investigations. As a result of this tragic incident, power supply to customers in parts of Florida, Hamberg, and surrounding areas has been disrupted.

Mangena added that police and inspectors are on site conducting their investigation into the incident.

“Operators can only start working towards restoring power supply after the law enforcement agencies conclude their investigation and clear the crime scene.”

“The team will first assess the extent of the damage, and that will determine the next course of action in restoring supply to affected areas. As such, City Power is not in a position to estimate the time of restoration.”