Fifth Suspect Arrested in R7 Million Tshwane Transformer Theft Case

A fifth suspect has been arrested in connection with the R7 million transformer theft from the Laudium substation in the City of Tshwane, bringing investigators one step closer to cracking a syndicate targeting South Africa’s essential infrastructure.

The latest arrest, confirmed by police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, took place on Sunday, 6 July, after the suspect voluntarily handed himself over to authorities. He is believed to be the intended buyer of the stolen transformer.

“The suspect is expected to make his first appearance at the Atteridgeville Magistrates Court on 7 July 2025,” said Nevhuhulwi.

Municipal Workers Among Accused

The case has already shocked the community, with three of the suspects identified as City of Tshwane employees:

• Siphiwe Mahlangu (45)

• Thomas Baloyi (41)

• Daniel Kubayi (50)

The trio appeared in court last week and face charges related to the theft of essential infrastructure. They have been denied bail and will remain in custody until their next court appearance on 8 July.

Syndicate Unravelling: Timeline of Arrests

• November 2024: Police launch an investigation following the theft at Laudium.

• Initial arrests: 11 suspects, mostly subcontractors, were taken into custody.

• One municipal employee remains in custody and is due back in court on 8 August.

• June 27, 2025: A fourth suspect was arrested.

• July 6, 2025: Fifth suspect, the alleged buyer, is arrested.

The investigation is being led by the Gauteng Organised Crime Unit, which continues to follow leads in what appears to be a coordinated crime syndicate.

Police and Public Reaction

Major General Samuel Thine, Tshwane District Commissioner, praised the investigating officers for their dedication to tackling infrastructure crimes that have a devastating impact on service delivery and the economy.

“We commend the team for their tireless work. We will continue to work diligently to dismantle these syndicates,” said Thine.

Ongoing Threat to Infrastructure

The theft of critical infrastructure such as transformers not only cripples local power delivery but also places significant strain on municipal budgets. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to rooting out internal collusion and tightening security around essential services.

As the investigation continues, more arrests are expected. The public has been urged to report suspicious activity involving electrical substations or municipal property.

{Source: The Citizen}

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