Winterveldt – Authorities have detained a 37-year-old man in Winterveldt, Gauteng, successfully recovering 28 stolen Eskom transformers valued at around R1.7 million.
The arrest took place during a well-coordinated operation on Friday, (7 March 2025), and the individual now faces charges of theft and disruption of critical infrastructure.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk provided details about the events leading up to the arrest and the recovery of Eskom’s transformers, explaining that law enforcement acted on intelligence concerning illegal electricity connections in the area.
The operation was conducted by a multi-disciplinary team that included members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) from various specialized units, alongside Eskom investigators and technicians.
“Upon arriving at the specified location, officers found the suspect in possession of an Eskom transformer and other electrical equipment, leading to his immediate arrest,” Van Wyk reported.
“Further investigations uncovered an additional 27 illegally connected Eskom transformers scattered throughout the surrounding area.
“Initial estimates from Eskom officials indicate that these unauthorized connections have resulted in a revenue loss approaching R90 million.”
The suspect is set to appear in Rietgat Magistrate’s Court next week.
This arrest represents the latest effort by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Energy Safety and Security Workstream as they persist in combating crimes that jeopardize Eskom’s operations.
“In a separate operation, the team disassembled and confiscated 13 illegally connected transformers in Diepsloot and Erasmia on Wednesday, 05 March 2025,” Van Wyk added.
“The estimated financial loss from this incident is around R19 million.”
Since its launch in 2022, the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Workstream has made significant progress in curbing acts of sabotage and other criminal activities that disrupt Eskom’s operations.
The SAPS encourages community members to report any criminal activities by contacting their nearest police station, calling SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or submitting anonymous tips through the MySAPS App.
