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Limpopo police are hunting suspects who illegally accessed a farm in Witpoort, dismantled an electrical transformer, and stole key components, causing damage worth thousands of rands.
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Provincial Police Commissioner Thembi Hadebe condemned the act, emphasizing its broader economic and community impact, and called for public assistance in the investigation.
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The case highlights a growing national issue of infrastructure theft in South Africa, prompting calls for increased security and tougher enforcement.
Authorities in Limpopo have initiated a manhunt following a brazen act of infrastructure theft at a farm in Witpoort, near Lephalale.
The incident, which occurred between the afternoon of Thursday, May 8, and Friday, May 9, involved the illegal dismantling of a vital electrical transformer, raising concerns about the growing trend of targeted attacks on essential infrastructure in rural areas.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the suspects gained unlawful entry by cutting through the property’s perimeter fence. Once inside, they proceeded to strip the electrical transformer of key components, rendering it inoperable.
“The suspects proceeded to target an electrical transformer, dismantling it and removing valuable components,” Ledwaba said. “The damage and theft were discovered by an employee during a routine security patrol of the farm. The estimated value of the damage and stolen items is thousands of rands.”
Theft of electrical infrastructure has become an increasingly disruptive and costly crime in South Africa, particularly in agricultural and industrial regions where such systems are vital for operations.
IOL reports that the destruction not only halts productivity but can also affect local communities that rely on the farms for employment and food supply.
Provincial Police commissioner condemns crime
Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe expressed strong condemnation of the incident, describing it as an attack not just on property but on the broader economy and public well-being.
“Attacks on our electrical infrastructure have serious consequences for our communities and economy. We are treating this case with the utmost priority,” said Hadebe.
The police have appealed to members of the public who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or who might have information leading to the identification of the suspects. They emphasized that all information provided will be handled with full confidentiality.
Those with leads are urged to contact Investigating Officer Sergeant William Nkwinika directly at 082 468 8931 or call the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.
