On Friday, 07 March 2025, an intelligence-led operation resulted in the arrest of a 37-year-old suspect in Winterveldt for theft and tampering with critical infrastructure. During the operation, police confiscated 28 Eskom transformers worth around R1.7 million.
A multi-disciplinary team, including SAPS members from various specialized units, Eskom investigators, and technicians, acted on intelligence about illegal electricity connections in the area.
Upon arrival at the specified location, officers discovered the suspect with an Eskom transformer and other electrical equipment, leading to his immediate arrest.
Further investigations revealed an additional 27 illegally connected Eskom transformers in the area, with Eskom officials estimating a revenue loss of approximately R90 million due to these illegal connections.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Rietgat Magistrates’ Court next week.
In a separate operation on Wednesday, 05 March 2025, the team dismantled and seized 13 illegally connected transformers in Diepsloot and Erasmia, resulting in an estimated revenue loss of R19 million.
Since its inception in 2022, the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Workstream has significantly reduced incidents of sabotage and criminal activities impacting Eskom’s operations.
The South African Police Service urges community members to report any criminal activities by contacting their nearest police station, SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or submitting anonymous tip-offs via the MySAPS App.
