South African power utility Eskom has made significant strides in tackling crime through its collaboration with the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) Energy Security and Safety Priority Committee. This partnership has led to multiple arrests, with the financial impact of these crimes estimated at R1.09 million. Of this, R873,000 has already been recovered.
In a recent case, an Eskom supplier and his brother were arrested on February 20 for stealing 16 dome valves worth R173,000 from Tutuka power station. The stolen items were identified when the supplier attempted to return them after securing a contract.
On January 31, an Eskom employee and a contracted security guard were arrested for diesel theft at Kriel power station. Investigators tracked a suspicious tanker to Kinross T-Junction, where suspects were caught attempting to transfer stolen fuel. The stolen diesel was valued at over R700,000, and two fuel trucks were seized.
Corruption and Infrastructure Theft in Eskom
A former Eskom employee, accused of extorting R220,000 by falsely promising supply contracts, was granted bail in November 2024 and is set to appear in court on March 12.
In another case, a suspect was sentenced to five years in prison on February 26 for stealing ash conveyor belts from Matimba power station. Since the conviction, no further thefts have been reported at the site.
Eskom Strengthens Its Security Measures
Eskom reaffirmed its commitment to combating crime and corruption, highlighting a restructuring of its forensic and security divisions, now reporting directly to CEO Dan Marokane. The utility urged the public to report any illegal activities, including fraud, fuel theft, and infrastructure sabotage, to help protect its operations and maintain public trust.