Disturbing WhatsApp screenshots of a conversation between a top Eskom security executive and alleged power station saboteurs have resulted in a high-profile police investigation, which may prove former Eskom CEO André de Ruyter’s allegations of Eskom’s capture by organised crime cartels with ties to government officials, including ministers.

The viral WhatsApp screenshots, in which a female Eskom executive with top security clearance is identified, allege that the Eskom executive colluded with specific engineering contractors to force breakdowns at all Eskom power stations, particularly Tutuka.

According to the screenshots, the executive signed off on contracts worth billions.

The screenshots, if true, prove that there are “crews” willing and ready to sabotage Duvha, Matla and Hendrina Power Stations.

The Matla crew was allegedly responsible for breakdowns at Matla in May.

According to the screenshots, the executive not only gives instructions on where the “crews” must hit but also on what contracts to tender for at Eskom power stations.

According to one thread, the alleged saboteur asks the executive whether the “crew” must bid for a contract at Duvha, which the executive then shoots down, explaining: “This one Bidvest and Fidelity are on my case on it, remember my daughter is getting something there so it’s difficult. Why don’t you go for the one (Close Protection) three years closing date 17 August?” the message instructs.

The thread includes a picture of tender specs, allegedly from the Eskom executive’s desktop.

In another thread, the executive is instructed to classify a breakdown as “sabotage” so that the crew can be appointed to investigate.

“Then we’re in the money and game,” the commentator responds.

The thread also makes mention of a number of companies who facilitate the bribed, with the executive saying, “They will call you as my daughter said to you to come pick up the package.”

Mr De Ruyter was vilified for his bold accusations against senior Eskom personnel and high-ranking government officials, without proof.

The leaked WhatsApp messages now form the basis of the police investigation, Police Minister Bheki Cele confirmed to the media.

The executive cannot be identified until formally charged.

Her involvement, as alluded to by the WhatsApp screenshots, comes on the back of a number of high-profile arrests, including that of former Eskom CEO Matshelo Koko and his family, alongside local attorney Chris Coetzee.

During a recent meeting with the local Chamber of Commerce and Industry, former Eskom Chief Operating Officer Jan Oberholzer, agreed with Mr De Ruyter that Eskom had been captured by dangerous cartels, using Eskom employees as cannon fodder, to loot billions from the power utility.