SA mobile operators struck by vandalism

 ·6 Sep 2013
Cellular tower

Mobile network operators have seen a dramatic rise in vandalism of their infrastructure, according to Africa’s biggest operator MTN.

The group says it recently experienced a surge in vandalism of transformers and siphoning of diesel at its cell phone network tower sites.

MTN said that the vandals seem to be working as a syndicate and are also stealing batteries after breaking the electric fence at MTN sites.

Vodacom and Telkom Mobile have previously said that they have seen similar kinds of vandalism and have had to take steps to protect their infrastructure.

“We urge the community to report this kind of crime if it is spotted as it hinders the delivery of much needed communications services,” said Eddie Moyce, chief customer experience officer at MTN SA .

“The siphoning of fuels and vandalism of masts could have a devastating impact of crippling our network, leaving our customers and community without access to communications services,” said Moyce.

This article first appeared on MyBroadband: Mobile network vandalism surge in SA

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