Six Arrested For Possession Of Stolen Eskom Property Worth R1.5 Million

In a major breakthrough against utility theft, six suspects were arrested by police from the elite Operation Vala Umgodi team after being found in possession of stolen Eskom property valued at R1.5 million.

 The suspects were  arrested on April 6, 2025, following an intelligence-driven operation in the KwaZulu-Natal area.

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Utility Theft in KwaZulu-Natal

The arrests occurred in the Empangeni and Mtunzini policing precincts, specifically in the Ngwelezane and Manteneshana areas. 

According to Provincial Police Spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the operation was initiated after authorities received credible intelligence regarding suspicious activities involving stolen assets.

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 The suspects arrested were aged between 32 and 54, after police tactically approached a residence in the Ngwelezane area on Sunday, April 6.

Upon searching the premises of the arrested suspects, authorities discovered a significant cache of stolen property, including smart meters and copper, all belonging to the power utility, Eskom. 

The items were linked to a brazen business robbery that took place at a site in the Sabhuza Reserve on March 17, 2025.

Sixth Arrest And Firearm Discovery

While the primary operation focused on the Ngwelezane area, further inquiries led investigators to the Manteneshana area in Makholokholo, where a sixth suspect was arrested. 

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This suspect was found in possession of additional Eskom property, which further escalated the seriousness of the case. 

During the search, police also discovered a prohibited firearm and ammunition, raising the stakes of the investigation.

Suspects To Face Multiple Charges In Court

The six suspects are set to appear in the Empangeni Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, where they will face multiple charges related to theft and firearm offences. 

Police continue to investigate the full extent of the stolen goods and are working to determine whether further individuals are involved in the criminal network.