Seven Emfuleni municipal workers remanded over R150,000 cash-for-reconnection scheme

Seven Emfuleni Municipality employees have been remanded in custody after appearing in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court, accused of running a cash-for-reconnection electricity scheme that allegedly netted R150,000.

Who is charged and when they appeared

The accused are David Seneekal (31), Caroline Smangele Maduna (39), Kenneth Zongezile Mahobe (35), Hlawutelo Baloyi (29), Pule Meshack Masilo (36), Andries Bafana Maduna (48) and Sibusiso Patrick Tshabalala (46). They made their first court appearance on 24 August 2026.

Allegations and period of the scheme

Prosecutors say the group faces charges of fraud, theft, money laundering and tampering with essential infrastructure. It is alleged that between February 2024 and June 2026 the employees disconnected electricity for customers with arrears, then approached those owners and residents offering reconnection in exchange for payment.

After receiving money, the accused are alleged to have unlawfully reconnected supply and manipulated records to show reduced amounts owed. In subsequent months, accounts reportedly reverted to their original amounts while electricity remained connected due to the alleged illegal reconnections.

Arrest, prosecution and next steps

The seven were arrested on 21 August 2026. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said:

“The complainants reported the matter to the municipality. After internal investigations, the municipality reported the matter to the police, and the seven accused were arrested.”

The matter was postponed to 31 August 2026 for a formal bail application, with all accused remanded in custody.

NPA statement and investigation status

Mahanjana said the NPA remains focused on pursuing cases that affect public infrastructure. She said:

“Such offences erode public trust and prejudice communities that rely on municipal services, and the NPA will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to hold those responsible accountable.”

Investigations are continuing, the National Prosecuting Authority said.