Eskom, Law Enforcement Remove Over 35 Illegal Transformers In Gauteng

Eskom, along with various law enforcement agencies, removed over 35 illegal transformers in Diepsloot Extension 6, located in Gauteng, as part of its ongoing efforts to regain control of its network and reduce the impact of unauthorized and illegal electricity connections.

In the 2022/23 financial year, Eskom reported losses of about R5 billion due to illegal connections, meter bypasses, and other electricity-related crimes in its service area, SA News reported.

The company expressed concern that unauthorized practices are damaging its finances and affecting its ability to provide reliable electricity to legitimate customers. The utility noted that illegal transformers not only disrupt the network, leading to frequent outages and poor service for paying customers but also pose safety risks to their technicians.

Eskom's Group Executive for Distribution Monde Bala praised the collaboration with the South African Police Service, Joburg Metropolitan Police Department, Red Ants, Eskom Protective Services, and private security firms for the success of this operation.

Bala emphasized that these efforts are essential for protecting Eskom's assets, ensuring public safety, and reducing energy losses caused by illegal connections and theft. Eskom also stated that while most employees are dedicated to improving performance, the organization has a strict zero-tolerance policy against crime and corruption.

"Consequently, we are currently investigating allegations from community leaders that some Eskom employees are allegedly involved in the sale of illegal transformers. We will update community leaders on the outcomes of these investigations once they are concluded," Bala said.

Eskom urged all communities to avoid engaging in illegal activities related to electricity. The public is encouraged to report illegal connections, meter bypasses and any suspicious activities to Eskom's Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.

Furthermore, anyone with information about Eskom employees involved in illegal activities is encouraged to report it anonymously for further investigation.

A former consultant of Inkitha Royal Empire Construction John Tazvivinga was sentenced to five years by the Mthatha Specialized Commercial Crime Court for tampering with Eskom infrastructure in June. The power utility reported a financial loss of R231,000 due to the incident.