Eskom substation

Two Eskom contracted security guards have been arrested for stealing cables. Photo: Eskom

BREAKING: Eskom staffer ARRESTED for stealing transformer oil

While the employee is being dealt with by the law, Eskom is also taking decisive steps by instituting disciplinary procedures against them

Eskom substation

Two Eskom contracted security guards have been arrested for stealing cables. Photo: Eskom

An Eskom employee in Johannesburg now faces at least one theft charge after being arrested for allegedly stealing transformer oil and power safety solvent gel.

According to the embattled power utility, the staff member was arrested on Thursday, 10 February 2022 and appeared in court the following Monday.

“The employee was caught by Eskom security personnel when trying to exit the utility premises in Rosherville, Johannesburg, with three full drums of transformer oil, an empty one, as well as six containers of 5 litre power safety solvent gel, for which he had no full removal permit. The South African Police Service (SAPS) was called and the suspect was apprehended and taken into custody,” the utility said.

THEFT AT ESKOM: EMPLOYEE TO FACE DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Eskom says it was its security staff which discovered the theft while inspecting the removal permit as part of their access control, while the said employee was attempting to leave the premises with the alleged stolen property.

“It was discovered that the permit only authorised the removal of two full drums of the oil and two empty ones, but it contained nothing about the gel,” the parastatal said.

While the employee is being dealt with by the law, Eskom is also taking decisive steps and plans to institute disciplinary procedures against them.

“We are disappointed that one of our own is implicated in the alleged theft. Eskom remains committed to resource optimisation where we ensure that all material is channelled to its intended use. We will continue to heighten efforts to curb material loss and any criminal acts by anyone, including our employees”

Kith Maitisa, Eskom SHEQS Manager in Gauteng

The utility has further reiterated that its committed to clamping down on illegal activities, including in instances where its employees are involved.

“We continue to urge all those who may be aware of any form of criminal acts by Eskom employees or anyone else, to anonymously alert us by calling the Eskom Crime Line on 0800 112 722 “, adds Maitisa.