Transnet Pipelines (TPL) has welcomed the arrest of an alleged fuel theft syndicate member who is linked to multiple cases across Gauteng, North West and the Free State.
TPL said his arrest followed a joint intelligence-led operation, Project Impi, by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), supported by TPL’s private security company, Bidvest Protea Coin.
TPL said the investigating team had traced the suspect, Sam Chavani Maswanganye, to a residence in Witbank. Following surveillance, a joint operation between the SA Police Service (SAPS) and BPC had led to his arrest at the property.
“A search of the premises and associated vehicles uncovered equipment commonly used in pipeline tampering and fuel theft operations, including a generator, grinder, drill equipment, gate valves, pipe fittings and high-pressure hoses,” TPL said.
“Two vehicles suspected to be linked to the activities were also seized. Containers with traces of petroleum product were also recovered at the property, with samples collected for forensic comparison.”
TPL chief executive, Sibongiseni Khathi, said the arrest reflected the “significant strength of our law enforcement in tackling fuel theft”.
“These are organised criminal activities that threaten critical infrastructure, disrupt our operations and pose risks to surrounding communities. Our focus remains on identifying, disrupting and prosecuting those involved”, Khathi said.
Maswanganye appeared in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on April 1. The matter was postponed to April 9 for further investigation and a bail application.
“He remains in custody. The arrest forms part of broader investigations, where further suspects are being linked to cases across the pipeline network,” the company said.
TPL urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities along pipeline servitudes via the Transnet Tip-Offs Anonymous Hotline: 0800 003 056.
