Eskom released the name of a suspect arrested and charged for theft, at its Camden Power Station, back in February 2024, as Witness Sibanda.
He was arrested after the CCTV operators detected movement in the area at around 21:00 and despatched security personnel to investigate.
On arrival, they found Sibanda in possession of copper cable in a restricted area where he was not authorised to be.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that he had cut off the perimeter fence to gain access to the area. He was apprehended and handed over to Ermelo SAPS at the scene, and a docket
was opened at Ermelo Police Station.
The Ermelo Magistrate Court found Sibanda guilty of damaging and stealing essential infrastructure, as well as contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act.
The Judge laid down the judgment as follows:
• Fifteen (15) years for damage to essential infrastructure.
• Fifteen (15) years for theft of essential infrastructure (copper cable).
• Three (3) months for contravening Immigration Act.
• All sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective 15-year direct imprisonment.
Botse Sikhwitshi, Acting General Manager of Security at Eskom, said Eskom has lost about R100 000, as a result of this incident.
“Our security teams are making significant progress in curbing criminal activities through swift action and remain committed to protecting Eskom’s assets and holding offenders accountable.
These efforts are bolstered by the strong support of law enforcement agencies, coordinated, and led by the National Energy Crisis Committee’s (NECOM) Safety and Security Priority Committee, and the criminal justice system. We express our gratitude to them” said Sikhwitshi.