The City of Johannesburg, through the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), has welcomed the sentencing and imprisonment of a perpetrator responsible for the theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure, a crime that continues to endanger road users and sabotage service delivery across the City of Johannesburg.

Francisco Mathe, a Mozambican national, was convicted on April 20 and, on May 13, sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for tampering with essential infrastructure and a further two years’ imprisonment for being in South Africa illegally, at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.

The court ruled that the two-year sentence will run concurrently with the 15-year sentence. Upon completion of his prison term, Mathe will be deported to his country of origin.

JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, noting that it signals a turning point in the prosecution of infrastructure-related crimes.

“While this may seem like a single victory in a vast challenge, the JRA is encouraged by this sentencing. Previously, suspects were often released due to administrative or legal hurdles. This outcome sends a clear message: tampering with City assets is a serious criminal offence that carries a heavy price,” said Nyathi.

Between 2022 and 2026, approximately 26 specific cases of copper cable theft have been reported. While several cases remain pending, the JRA remains optimistic that more convictions will follow.

Frequently targeted infrastructure includes traffic light cables, monitors and poles, and tampering with traffic signal equipment, guardrails, barriers and fencing posts, street name poles and steel grid inlets, steel reinforcements and kerb inlet tops.

Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport, Kenny Kunene, reiterated that the city has intensified its crackdown through strategic partnerships.

“The JRA has collaborated with the SAPS, JMPD, Gauteng Traffic Police, Crime Prevention Wardens, and private security firms. This outcome is a testament to the fact that no one is above the law,” said Kunene.

“This success highlights our commitment to combating the rampant vandalism and theft that costs the city millions of Rands annually.”

The JRA appeals to scrapyard owners to act ethically and refuse the purchase of any city or JRA-branded assets. Dealers approached with such items are urged to report the sellers to law enforcement immediately.

Members of the community are also encouraged to participate in the City’s Active Citizenry initiative and report all acts of vandalism and theft.

Anyone with information on vandalism or theft in progress can contact the City of Johannesburg’s call centre on 0860 562 874, the SAPS, or JMPD.