A national joint security operation involving Transnet and several law enforcement agencies led to the recovery of two tonnes of copper cables valued at R250 000 in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal last Monday.
One suspect has been arrested.
According to Transnet, between August and November, 281 suspects linked to the crime have been arrested across the country – two in separate incidents in Ogies, Mpumalanga last week. Both have appeared in the Ogies Magistrates Court.
The theft of overhead cables on Transnet Freight Rail’s (TFR) railway line and siphoning of fuel from the Transnet Pipelines network has reached unprecedented levels in recent times, says Transnet.
Through its operating divisions, TFR and Transnet Pipelines, the SOC has intensified its detection and rapid response capabilities. It is also working with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to ensure that those who tamper with, damage, and destroy essential infrastructure are charged in terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, Act 18 of 2015 where criminals can face up to 30 years in prison.
Transnet continues to appeal to members of the public to report fuel theft, railway equipment theft, vandalism of infrastructure, and any suspicious activities near the company’s operations by calling the following toll-free numbers:
For pipeline incidents: 0800 203 843
For railway infrastructure: 0800 000 3056
Members of the public can also email transnet@tip-offs.com or report the matter to their nearest police station.
