Increased surveillance and security measures put in place along the Transnet Pipelines network is paying dividends, with a further two suspects arrested last night in the Umbumbulu area for attempting to tamper with the pipelines. This brings the total arrests for the past three months to 40.
It is also encouraging that the justice system is starting to record convictions linked to these crimes, says Transnet. On June 23, a 42-year-old man was found guilty and sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, and a further five years suspended for five years, for tampering with the pipeline in the Langlaagte area.
“The increase in arrests indicates that the collaboration with various role-players is yielding positive results,” says Transnet in a statement. “We are committed to halt the onslaught of criminal activities and keep our pipelines and the communities safe.”
The transport utility has warned that tampering with high-pressure petroleum pipelines is dangerous, and these acts of theft and vandalism can lead to explosions and fires.
As the pipelines are classified as essential infrastructure, any tampering, or colluding to tamper, is a Schedule 5 offence in terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, Act 18 of 2015 and all perpetrators are charged accordingly.
Petroleum retailers and members of the public have been encouraged not to buy fuel from unregistered traders to curb the demand for illegal petroleum products and to join in the fight against petroleum theft.
In case of any suspicious activity, call the toll-free number 0800 203 843, or report it to the nearest police station.
