By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Eskom has confirmed the arrest of three contractor employees — an excavator operator and two mechanics — for the theft of R1,000 worth of diesel at Kusile Power Station.
The incident unfolded when an Eskom supervisor, during a routine inspection, received a call from the excavator operator requesting to leave early due to personal issues.
However, when he went to meet with the operator, he spotted an unknown white vehicle parked near him, and two unknown individuals were also nearby.
They said they were mechanics and were there to fix a breakdown on the machine.
“Upon further questioning, it was established that the Excavator Operator and the two mechanics had drained diesel from the excavator,” said Eskom.
“The suspects tried to offer the Supervisor a bribe of R5 000.00 if he did not report the crime, which he refused.”
The suspects drained 40 litres of diesel from the excavator into two 20-litre containers.
The South African Police Service arrested the suspects on the spot and detained them at the Phola Police Station.
They were charged and appeared in the Phola Court on Thursday, 25 July. The case was remanded to 4 September, and the suspects were released on bail of R500 each.
“Eskom strongly condemns any criminal activity within its operations and will not tolerate such behaviour. We commend the supervisor and the security team for their vigilance,” says Eskom Security acting GM Botse Sikhwitshi.
“Our internal security investigations team will continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies, coordinated and led by the National Energy Crisis Committee’s Safety and Security Priority Committee, which plays a crucial role in supporting Eskom’s efforts to combat criminal activities,” she adds.
Thus far during the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year from April 1 to June 30, Eskom has made positive strides with an increase in arrests and convictions, she notes.
Reports can be made anonymously through the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via its WhatsApp number at 081 333 3323.