Fourth suspect in R7m transformer theft awaits bail hearing, case postponed
A year-long thorough investigation into the theft of the transformer revealed that three had fled the scene before police arrived. The fourth suspect is the alleged buyer.
The case of the three Tshwane officials accused in the brazen theft of a transformer worth R7-million has been postponed to July 11.
This comes after a fourth accused, Katlego Molepo (32), handed himself over to the Atteridgeville police station on July 6, according to the NPA.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said the case was postponed for Molepo’s bail hearing, which the state opposes.
“The case was postponed to July 11 for the Schedule 6 opposed bail application of the fourth accused,” she said.
She said Molepo is the alleged buyer of the transformer and would be facing the same charge as the three officials accused of stealing a transformer valued at R7-million.
“All three are facing a charge of theft of essential infrastructure, relating to a transformer stolen from the Claudius Substation in Laudium.”
Mahanjana said on July 8, the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court granted the three Tshwane officials bail.
“Kleinbooy Mahlangu (45) from Soshanguve was granted bail of R35 000, while Thomas Baloi (41) from Pretoria North and Daniel Kubayi (50) from Hammanskraal were each granted bail of R30 000.”
The three were arrested on July 1 after the Gauteng Organised Crime unit conducted almost a year-long thorough investigation of the theft of the transformer.
She said the TMPD and SAPS allegedly responded to a tip-off about a theft in progress at the Claudius Substation on November 7, 2024.
“Upon arrival, they found cranes, trucks, and a City of Tshwane-branded vehicle on-site. When no proof of work authorisation could be provided, 11 people were arrested,” she said.
Mahanjana said 10 individuals were later released from custody.
She said during investigations, it was found that Mahlangu, Baloi, and Kubayi had fled the scene before police arrived.
“Warrants of arrest were issued, and the three were arrested at their respective workplaces,” she said.
Mahanjana added that the state did not oppose their release on bail.
“Prosecutor Grace Komane submitted an affidavit from Investigating Officer Sergeant Thabo Lukhele, stating that the accused had co-operated with the police, is permanently employed by the City of Tshwane, and therefore they do not pose a flight risk,” she said.
She said the affidavit also noted that the investigation is nearly complete, with most witness statements already collected.
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