Two suspects caught at Yzervarkfontein in the Welbekend area were sentenced to 27 years in prison after stealing more than 4km of Eskom’s aluminium cables during 2018.

Anye Valentine Nkwenti was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, while Happy Dube was sentenced for 12 years imprisonment on May 5.

The two were found guilty for stealing aluminium cables and were sentenced in the Bronkhorstspruit Regional Court.

They were caught at Yzervarkfontein, while trying to flee from the scene. The vehicle in which they attempted to flee was also impounded.

Also found on the scene were two wood saws and a hacksaw believed to be used in the preparation of the offence.

According to a media statement released by Eskom on May 17, the theft of cables, overhead lines, transformers and conductors costs Eskom about R2bn per year.

“Illegal electricity connections and cable theft often lead to prolonged power outages and comprises the quality of supply, which affects businesses, essential services, as well as the day-to-day lives of society. This has a negative impact on the economy.”

Kith Maitisa, the Eskom SHEQS manager in Gauteng welcomed the convictions and expressed appreciation for the corporation between Eskom employees, the security company and the police for apprehending the criminals.

“Gauteng experiences a lot of cable theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure. The arrests are part of our heightened efforts to curb criminal acts that affect customers, disrupt people’s livelihoods and the future of the country,” said Maitisa.

Maitisa further urged all those who may be aware of any form of criminal acts to report them by calling Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722 or the South African Police Services. Tipp-offs can also be done anonymously.