Three workers from the City of Tshwane have been arrested for allegedly stealing a transformer worth R7 million from the Laudium substation.
How Did The Heist Happen?
The transformer was stolen in November 2023 using a crane and two flatbed trucks. The suspects pretended they were taking it for repairs. Police arrived just in time after a tip-off from ward councillor Naeem Patel, who called both the Tshwane Metro Police and the South African Police Service.
When officers got to the scene:
Council trucks were being loaded with stolen equipment.
Heavy machinery used in the theft was seized.
Who Was Arrested?
Three City of Tshwane workers were arrested on Monday, 1 July.
Three Tshwane Workers Arrested for R7 Million Transformer Heist
Jul 2, 2025
May 15, 2026
2 min read
Published
Updated:
Three workers from the City of Tshwane have been arrested for allegedly stealing a transformer worth R7 million from the Laudium substation.
How Did The Heist Happen?
The transformer was stolen in November 2023 using a crane and two flatbed trucks. The suspects pretended they were taking it for repairs. Police arrived just in time after a tip-off from ward councillor Naeem Patel, who called both the Tshwane Metro Police and the South African Police Service.
When officers got to the scene:
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Council trucks were being loaded with stolen equipment.
Heavy machinery used in the theft was seized.
Who Was Arrested?
Three City of Tshwane workers were arrested on Monday, 1 July.
They will appear at the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 2 July, facing charges of stealing essential infrastructure.
During the original investigation last year:
11 people were arrested, including 10 subcontractors, but most were released due to lack of evidence.
One Tshwane worker remains in jail until his next court date on 8 August.
Mayor Reacts
Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya visited the substation and said she was shocked by what she saw.
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What Happens Next?
Police say:
More arrests are likely as the internal investigation continues.
They are determined to stop criminals who target the city’s infrastructure.
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