Eskom’s ongoing collaboration with law enforcement leads to six arrests for procurement fraud
Saturday, 15 March 2025: The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee, in collaboration with Eskom, continues to make strides in combating corruption and theft within Eskom’s operations.
Over the last two days, six individuals were arrested for their involvement in a fraudulent procurement scheme at Kusile Power Station. Among those apprehended are a former Kusile Procurement Officer and a Procurement Manager.
These arrests were the result of a coordinated intelligence-driven operation conducted on 14 and 15 March 2025 by the Mission Area Joint Operational Centre (MAJOC).
Investigations revealed that in 2018, a pump was unlawfully procured for R857,977.00, despite an identical pump with the same serial number having been purchased in 2015 for only R18,835.00. This fraudulent transaction led to a direct financial loss for Eskom.
The operation began on Friday, 14 March 2025, with the arrest of the former Kusile Procurement Officer by the SAPS. The following day (15 March 2025), four additional suspects, including the Kusile Procurement Manager, were taken into custody. Two suspects remain at large, with authorities actively pursuing them.
The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in the eMalahleni Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 17 March 2025. These arrests form part of the ongoing efforts by the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee to address fraud, corruption, and criminal activities within Eskom, its supply chain, and South Africa’s broader energy infrastructure.
Eskom continues to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate fraud and corruption cases. While these investigations are thorough and time-intensive, the latest arrests highlight significant progress in ensuring accountability and justice.
“Our commitment to eliminating corruption within Eskom remains unwavering. By far the vast majority of our employees demonstrate integrity and dedication, and those who engage in wrongdoing will increasingly face investigation and action,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.
To strengthen governance and enhance our investigative capabilities, Eskom has consolidated its forensic, security, and investigative functions into the newly formed Group Investigations and Security Division, which reports directly to the Group Chief Executive. Through its collaboration with the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee, Eskom ensures swift action against fraud and corruption, protecting its assets and maintaining public trust.
These arrests send a strong message; corruption and fraud will not be tolerated. Eskom is steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices.
Eskom urges the public to report any knowledge of criminal activities, including fraud, theft, and illegal electricity sales. Reports can be made anonymously via the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.
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