Durban – Ethekwini metro Mayor James Nxumalo called for calm on Monday after two men were killed in a clash over illegal electricity connections.

They were shot dead on Saturday, apparently by security guards, as municipal officials were trying to disconnect and illegal electricity connection at the New Germany informal settlement in Reservoir Hills, Durban.

Seven people were injured.

The municipality said Nxumalo visited the settlement on Sunday and asked the residents to remain calm.

The informal settlement would be receiving electricity.

“It is important to note that illegal connections and the theft of electricity is unacceptable, dangerous and will not be tolerated,” the municipality said.

“People put their lives and others at risk and also affect residents in the area as power outages occur.”

Nine security guards, who accompanied the municipal officials were arrested, relieved of their weapons and charged with murder and attempted murder.

The officials had, according to the municipality, responded to a call from customers who suffered a power outage as a result of the illegal connections.

– SAPA