In a separate statement, Eskom reported that on 6 April 2023, the South African Police Services (SAPS) Illicit Mining and Economic Infrastructure Task Team was observing various fuel trucks in the vicinity of the Eskom Kendal Power Station when they noticed a fuel tanker approaching from the power station. The truck was stopped and inspected, close to a petrol station in Ogies. On inspection it was established that the tanker contained a full load of heavy fuel oil (HFO).
The theft of HFO, as traced at Kendal Power Station, is a highly organised criminal activity.
During questioning, the driver presented a weighbridge slip confirming delivery of the fuel. The driver was instructed to return to the Kendal Power Station where arrangements were made to have the tanker re-weighed. It was then established that only 1 680 kg of fuel was offloaded instead of the full consignment. In this instance, Eskom suffered a loss of about R300 000.
The driver was arrested by the SAPS and a criminal case of fraud and theft was opened at the Ogies Police Station. The truck driver has since been released on R2 000 bail after making an appearance in the Ogies Magistrate’s Court on 18 April.
On 18 April 2023, two Eskom plant operators from Kendal Power Station linked to the matter were also arrested and were expected to apply for bail on 24 April 2023.
The theft of HFO is a highly organised criminal activity and syndicates involved are being enriched through the proceeds derived from the illicit trade of the stolen products. Eskom continues to lose billions of rand due to the misappropriation and adulteration of these critical commodities, which directly affects production.
“The arrest of these individuals is a significant step in our fight against crime in Eskom and the country, and we shall continue in our pursuit to ensure that the perpetrators face the law,” said Advocate Karen Pillay, General Manager for Security at Eskom.
“The persistent efforts by the Eskom Security Team, Bidvest Protea Coin Task Team and the SAPS, who are all working to identify and disrupt the criminal networks, are an indication of our determination to root out the criminal elements from Eskom.
“We will provide the required support to the SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure that the suspects are successfully prosecuted and a stiff sanction is meted out, one that will serve to deter other would-be offenders,” Pillay added.
The public can report information regarding theft of coal, fuel oil and diesel or other criminal activities to the Eskom Crime Line: 0800 11 27 22.
For more information visit: www.eskom.co.za
