SIX ARRESTED IN ESKOM PROCUREMENT FRAUD INVESTIGATION
The arrested suspects are scheduled to appear before the eMalahleni Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 17 March 2025. This development is part of a broader effort to combat fraud, corruption, and criminal activities within Eskom and South Africa’s energy sector.
EZOMPHAKATHI
eMalahleni: A collaborative effort between Eskom and law enforcement has led to the arrest of six individuals linked to a fraudulent procurement scheme at Kusile Power Station. The arrests, carried out on 14 and 15 March 2025, include a former Kusile Procurement Officer and a Procurement Manager, both accused of involvement in corruption that resulted in financial losses for the power utility.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee, in coordination with Eskom, played a crucial role in uncovering the scheme. The investigation revealed that in 2018, a pump was procured for an inflated price of R857,977.00, despite an identical pump having been purchased in 2015 for only R18,835.00.
Authorities confirmed that the arrests were executed through an intelligence-driven operation led by the Mission Area Joint Operational Centre (MAJOC). The first suspect, the former Kusile Procurement Officer, was taken into custody on Friday, 14 March. The following day, four additional suspects, including the Kusile Procurement Manager, were arrested. Two more individuals remain at large, with police actively tracking them.
The arrested suspects are scheduled to appear before the eMalahleni Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 17 March 2025. This development is part of a broader effort to combat fraud, corruption, and criminal activities within Eskom and South Africa’s energy sector.
Eskom has reiterated its commitment to eradicating corruption within its ranks. “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 bolster its investigative capabilities, Eskom has restructured its forensic, security, and investigative divisions under the newly formed Group Investigations and Security Division, which reports directly to the Group Chief Executive. Through continued collaboration with NATJOINTS and other law enforcement agencies, Eskom aims to ensure swift action against fraud and corruption while maintaining public trust.
Eskom urges members of the public to report any 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.