Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Region combats vandalism and thefts

The Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Region (South Africa) is actively taking steps to combat the increasing problem of vandalism and battery theft at base stations in the province.

According to a release published by the Vodacom Group, every month, the region experiences more than 100 incidents of vandalism and 167 incidents of battery theft at sites.

Security solutions for serious problems

In remote parts of the region, cellular base stations typically serve as the only form of connectivity for many communities.

If sites are vandalised or batteries are stolen, thousands of residents are left without communication, impacting individuals and small businesses and posing serious consequences in emergency situations.

The cost of restoring connectivity after incidents is said to amount to approx. R70 000 per site.

Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal region has therefore invested in robust security measures, installing security cameras to monitor sites and deploying trained personnel to respond to any suspicious activity.

In addition, the company is working closely with law enforcement agencies, communities and security companies and has installed high-security battery cabinets and hardened site containers.

“We have to protect our infrastructure”

“Vandalism and battery theft is one of the big issues that we are contending with across the regions but we are not sitting on our laurels as we are fighting with everything we have to protect our infrastructure, so that we can continue to provide connectivity for our customers across the province,” commented Imran Khan, Managing Executive, Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Region.

“Things have gotten so serious that as it stands, 351 of our sites have no batteries and this is reversing the gains that we have made in bridging the digital divide across the province. 

“The cost of the impact of vandalism and theft goes beyond just the equipment and resources required for restoration. It disrupts network services, causing downtime for customers and affecting communities that rely on connectivity,” Khan added.

“Vodacom appeals to all stakeholders”

“We acknowledge that the fight against vandalism and theft is ongoing, and criminals are constantly finding new ways to operate illegally,” Khan added.

“Therefore, Vodacom appeals to all stakeholders, including law enforcement and communities, to play their part in curbing these offences. We have seen success in deterring thieves when members of the communities, such as farmers, report criminal activity.

“Stopping vandalism and theft is in everyone’s interest to prevent network disruption and ensure inclusive access to the benefits of connectivity.”