The South African government has ordered the deployment of the Army to some of the power plants of energy company Eskom due to fears of possible sabotage, all after the country has been suffering continuous blackouts in recent days.
«Eskom can confirm that the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) is being deployed. Eskom has received deployments to four power stations,» the company said in a statement reported by South African media.
The executive’s decision comes after reports emerged that several power plants have been deliberately damaged while contractors have been supplying poor quality coal to the plants, which damages the machines.
Presidential spokesman, Vincent Magwenya, said the level of crime taking place at the power plants has left them no choice but to consider beefing up security, the SABC reported.
According to Magwenya, a minimum of 10 soldiers will be deployed at each power station, with priority given to Tutuka, Camden, Majuba and Grootvlei power stations.
Eskom’s power stations are struggling and breakdowns are becoming more frequent. Meanwhile, the group has run out of money to buy more diesel to keep its combined cycle gas turbines running. The utility has also disconnected a unit at the Koeberg power plant, removing 1000 MW from the grid, while 3000 MW remain disconnected from damaged units at Medupi and Kusile.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
