A Somalian nation arrested by TMPD for tampering with infrastructure in Pretoria West photos supplied
By Warrant Officer Puleng Motholo
TMPD spokesperson
The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) Specialized By-law and Cable Theft Unit arrested a Somalian national during a by-law operation for tampering with municipal infrastructure and possession of suspected stolen City of Tshwane electricity cables in Pretoria West today, 18 February 2026.
The arrest occurred following an operation on Tuesday where electricity was disconnected from a Somalian restaurant due to non-payment.
Today, officers received a tip-off alleging that the restaurant owner was attempting to bypass the disconnection by reconnecting the electricity illegally.
The suspect was promptly arrested for tampering with municipal infrastructure and possession of suspected stolen property.
The TMPD urges the public to report any suspicious activity or cable theft to TMPD Cable Theft Unit on 012 358 1550
Tshwane Talks readers have been able to read stories in this publication for free for over two years now. We still want our readers to access our stories for free, but we are asking those among our readers who can afford it to contribute at least R30 a month to cover some of the costs of publishing this independent, non-aligned online newspaper which gives a voice to all sectors of society irrespective of race, colour, creed, religion, or political affiliation. You may make your contribution by depositing at least R30 a month into Tshwane Talks' bank account. Details are as follows:
Bank Details
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Number: 10225548834
Account Type: Cheque Account