Transnet Pipelines (TPL) has welcomed the recent 35-year sentence imposed on a Zimbabwean national for tampering with essential infrastructure, the theft of fuel and being in possession of stolen property.

TPL says this verdict, delivered on August 26 in the Pretoria Regional Court, highlights the serious consequences of crimes that threaten South Africa's critical infrastructure.

The case dates back to December 31, 2022, when TPL’s Network Operations Centre (NOC) detected a significant pressure drop on the Kendal to Waltloo pipeline in the early morning.

Security teams were promptly deployed and they identified a suspicious fuel tanker near a known fuel theft hotspot in the Boschkop area.

The driver attempted to flee by abandoning the moving vehicle and escaping into nearby bushes.

However, the ground teams quickly apprehended him.

TPL says subsequent investigations revealed that an illegal fitting had been welded into the pipeline, facilitating the theft of 33 994 l of petrol. The stolen fuel was recovered and confirmed to match the TPL product from the pipeline.

“This verdict sends a clear message that tampering with critical infrastructure and stealing our nation’s resources are grave offenses that will not go unpunished.

“The sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and its impact on both the economy and society. We are proud of the swift and effective response from our security teams and the collaboration with law enforcement that led to this outcome,” says TPL CE Sibongiseni Khathi.

The Zimbabwean national was found guilty on all charges on July 8, and was given a 35-year sentence this week, of which 20 years is direct imprisonment.

“TPL Pipelines will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat such crimes and remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding our infrastructure and ensuring the security of our national assets,” says TPL.

TPL encourages the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or incidents along its pipelines to the Tip-Offs Anonymous Hotline: 0800 003 056.