By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Energy Safety and Security Workstream continues to make significant progress in combating crimes that undermine Eskom’s mandate.
During an intelligence-driven operation on Friday, 07 March 2025, police arrested a 37-year-old suspect in Winterveldt for theft and tampering with essential infrastructure. During this operation, police seized 28 Eskom transformers valued at approximately R1.7 million.
A multi-disciplinary team, comprising SAPS members from various specialised Units, Eskom investigators, and technicians, acted on intelligence regarding illegal electricity connections in the area. Upon reaching the identified location, officers found the suspect in possession of an Eskom transformer and other electrical equipment, leading to his immediate arrest.
Further investigations uncovered 27 additional illegally connected Eskom transformers across the area. Preliminary estimates by Eskom officials indicate that these illegal connections have resulted in a revenue loss of approximately R90 million.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Rietgat Magistrates’ Court next week.
In another operation, the team dismantled and seized 13 illegally connected transformers in Diepsloot and Erasmia on Wednesday, 05 March 2025. The loss in revenue is estimated at R19 million.
Since its establishment in 2022, the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Workstream has significantly curtailed incidents of sabotage and criminal activities affecting 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.
