Gatvol Bonteheuwel residents have started taking photos and videos of a teenage cable thief dubbed Spiderman, hoping it will help cops nab him.
The youngster has been climbing up dangerous electricity pylons where he brazenly cuts and steals the cables on the railway tracks.
In the latest incident on Friday, the teen, who is from the community, can be seen dangling at dangerous angles as he climbs up the pylon and twists and turns to cut the cables, which are sold at scrapyards.
The images were sent to ward councillor Angus McKenzie in his capacity as transport portfolio committee chairperson for the area and because “calls to the police went unanswered”.
McKenzie has now requested a meeting with Metrorail officials to discuss a way of curbing the vandalism, which has crippled rail services in Cape Town.
“The latest vandalism took place on Friday afternoon when a teenage male with no fear climbed up the electric pole and proceeded to cut, destroy and steal cabling,” he says.
“This happened in full view of various individuals who had contacted the nearby police, 1km away, who did not bother responding.
“I have made a request to Metrorail to appear before my Portfolio Committee after recess to answer what plans are in place to curb this ongoing criminality.
“I would further request of residents to please make use of our confidential tip-off line at 021 480 7700 to assist in fighting this disastrous behaviour.
“Cable thieves belong behind bars, not on poles.”