VANDERBIJLPARK. — Seven municipal workers linked to an alleged R10m electricity scam walked free on bail from the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court today, though the suspected mastermind remains in custody.

Relieved families and colleagues packed Court Room B to capacity as Magistrate Claudia Venter granted each of the seven Emfuleni Local Municipality employees bail of R20 000. Cheers and smiles greeted the decision outside the dock.

However, 25-year-old service provider Janitha van Reenen, accused of masterminding the illegal reconnection scheme, remained in custody while her separate legal proceedings continue.

Van Reenen was initially arrested by the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team outside a previous court appearance concerning a separate fraud case.

Investigators allege the network instructed cash-strapped municipal customers to deposit payments directly into private bank accounts in exchange for unauthorised electricity reconnections, costing the municipality close to R10m.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana welcomed the outcome while emphasising that bail grants do not reflect guilt or innocence.

“We note the ruling by the court to grant the seven accused R20 000 bail with conditions. It is also important to note that bail is to secure the accused’s attendance in court,” she said.

Prosecutors originally opposed release over fears the accused might tamper with ongoing inquiries.

One of the conditions imposed by the court is that the accused must not interfere with the investigation or witnesses.

The seven employees will remain on bail under close police monitoring as legal proceedings continue. The alleged mastermind remains behind bars until her bail judgment.