By Stefanus Nashama
The Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (Nored) warns that a fine of N$25,000 plus unpaid electricity back charges may be paid by anyone found to have passed their electricity meter or made illegal connection.
This follows a recent report that some people at Oshikango in the Oshana region have made illegal connections to other people.
Sources, who talk to Confidente, claimed that those who have electricity in their houses connect electrical cables illegally through earth to their neigbouring houses and the neighbours pay them for using such electricity Nored spokesperson Simon Lukas confirmed the report, saying the issue of illegal connections is an operational challenge the company is battling across its entire area of operation.
“Yes. The issue of illegal connections is not limited to Oshikango suburb only; It is an operational challenge we are battling across Nored’s entire area of operation,” Lukas said.
He said the company takes this issue very seriously and any person found to have by-passed their electricity meter or made an illegal connection will be penalized in accordance with laws, particularly the Electricity Act (Act of 4 of 2007), guiding technical regulations as well as Nored’s regulations.
“Such penalties may include disconnection of the electricity supply, a fine of N$25 000 plus unpaid electricity back charges, and possible criminal prosecution,” Lukas stated.
He stressed that illegal connections are criminal offences and serious safety violations that causes unplanned power interruptions, damage key electrical infrastructures, and most importantly places the whole community and public at extreme safety risk of electrocution, especially the vulnerable members such as the children that are exposed to dangerous unsafe wires whilst playing outdoor.
He further emphasised that illegal connection are extremely dangerous and can put the lives of those involved, as well as member so the public a serious risk of electrocution and severe injuries.
“We therefore strongly warn anyone involved to stop these activities stop immediately. Any person who requires an electricity connection is encouraged to visit and apply at any Nored nearest office,” he said.
Lukas encouraged members of the community to report suspected illegal connections so that they can be investigated and addressed promptly.
“Nored keeps the identity of the informant confidential plus reward all the successful investigated illegal connections,” he said.
Additionally, Lukas urges property owners, landlords, businesses, and anyone responsible for electrical infrastructure to desist from allowing illegal connections on their premises or infrastructure.
“We encourage everyone to ensure that all electricity connections are authorized and installed through the proper procedures. By working together, we can protect our communities, improve public safety, and maintain a reliable electricity supply for all.”
