Batteries

by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG – MTN is appealing to consumers to report battery theft and vandalism of network towers in the lead up to the festive season.

The mobile networks company fears the infrastructure would not be spared the escalating crime around December.

“Although great strides have been made in the prevention and recovery of stolen batteries, it is still a concern,” said Ernest Paul, General Manager: MTN Network Operations.

“…. Particularly now, as we know that crime spikes in December, which means that more batteries may be stolen – and more consumers may be left unconnected.”

Paul noted that battery theft was a crime that compromised the safety and welfare of every South African.

He thus appealed for the participation of the public to fight such crimes.

South Africans are advised to report theft, vandalism or suspicious activity to authorities.

“We are doing our part and together with SAPS (South African Police Service) and other law enforcement authorities, we are making headway, but we need assistance from the public,” Paul said.

Paul said the festive season was a time for connecting with friends and family and a time when South Africans must be able to call emergency services should they find themselves in dangerous situations, whether on holiday, at home or on the roads.

“Without connection to a cellphone network this is impossible,” he said.

– CAJ News