The Société nationale d'électricité (SENELEC) of Senegal has taken a firm stance against the increasing number of attacks on its infrastructure. Following acts of vandalism and equipment theft on September 20 in Sébikotane and Khodoba, in the Thiès region, the company has decided to pursue the matter through legal channels. A complaint has been filed against unknown individuals with the Division des investigations criminelles (DIC) to identify and prosecute those suspected of committing these acts.
According to reports from L'Observateur, the SENELEC distribution service manager in Thiès filed the complaint to identify and apprehend the thieves. The two sites affected experienced the theft of electrical materials, leading to disruptions in electricity distribution. These actions not only cause material damage to SENELEC but also directly impact the populations, businesses, and economic activities of the regions concerned.
Ibrahima Diarra DIOUF, secretary-general of the Syndicat unique et démocratique des travailleurs de l'énergie, has warned of the recurrence of such actions. In an interview with L'Observateur, he emphasized that acts of vandalism targeting distribution posts are becoming more frequent. These aggressions represent a direct threat to the continuity and quality of electricity supply.
DIOUF noted that such incidents were once relatively rare but are now a growing concern due to their increased frequency and the methods employed. The theft of materials results in significant financial losses for SENELEC and can cause power outages that disrupt economic activities. Certain infrastructures are particularly vulnerable due to their remote locations, while strategic installations have enhanced security measures.
The secretary-general encourages citizens to report any unusual movements or behavior near electrical installations. SENELEC, on the other hand, is working to enhance the security of certain sites. A plan of action is being prepared to combat this problem, including increased use of video surveillance.
Remi SOUSSO and other stakeholders are involved in efforts to address the issue. The impact of these vandalism acts is multifaceted, affecting not just the company but also the community at large. Efforts to mitigate these incidents are ongoing.
The complaint filed with the DIC marks a significant step in SENELEC's efforts to address the issue of vandalism. The company remains committed to ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply to the population.
Key points
- SENELEC files complaint with DIC over vandalism and theft of electrical equipment.
- Acts of vandalism disrupt electricity distribution, impacting populations and economic activities.
- SENELEC and stakeholders work together to enhance security and combat vandalism.
