Eskom records 505 arrests as infrastructure crime losses fall to R191 million

In the year leading up to March 2026, power utility Eskom reported the arrest of 505 individuals for crimes targeting its infrastructure, as the company intensifies its efforts to combat theft, vandalism, and sabotage. The utility noted a 13% decrease in crime-related incidents and an 18% reduction in estimated losses to R191 million. However, recovery efforts increased by 38% to R34 million, although only 13 convictions were recorded.

Despite the decline in crime, Eskom highlighted that targeted crime risks such as electrical cable theft, coal, diesel, and fuel oil theft, illegal connections, meter tampering, ghost vending, infrastructure vandalism, and sabotage remain threats to primary energy security, operational performance, revenue protection, and financial sustainability. The utility emphasized its strengthened security operations, including measures to safeguard its coal supply chain and critical infrastructure.

Eskom's crime-prevention initiatives and disruptive operations across the coal supply chain contributed to the detection of potential theft, fraud, and adulteration risks. The utility's focus on coal security is crucial due to its impact on power station performance and reliable electricity supply. The company has introduced new security technologies, including a real-time monitoring system and surveillance tools, data analysis, and drones for site protection.

Eskom's Group Investigations and Security unit specializes in addressing high-priority incidents involving organized crime, infrastructure sabotage, and significant economic offenses through intelligence-driven investigations and rapid response interventions.