By 
CENTLEC has welcomed and is pleased with the sentencing of two criminals involved in stealing the utility’s property causing a serious inconvenience for residents in Mangaung Metro.
The Magistrate Court in Bloemfontein handed down the 10 years sentence on 10 February 2025, on two accounts. The Spokesperson of CENTLEC Mr Lele Mamatu explained that the two persons were involved in criminal activities targeting critical infrastructure at Peter Swartz in Bloemfontein.
Mamatu said Mr. Mokati and his accomplice, were arrested on the On 6th June 2024, while busy stealing the circuit breaker costing the community of Mangaung plus/minus R 10 732 in repairs and replacement of stolen equipment.
Both the accused were charged with tempering and theft of valuable infrastructure. They were found guilty on two counts. In their last appearance before the Bloemfontein Magistrate court on 10th of February 2025, they were sentenced to 5 years imprisonment on count 1 and 5 years imprisonment on count 2. These sentences will run concurrently.
“As CENTLEC we welcome the conviction and the sentences meted out by the Bloemfontein Magistrate Court on this matter. These sentences highlight the gravity of crimes against critical infrastructure and serve as a deterrent to others.
Tempering, electricity theft and vandalism of valuable infrastructure remain a very serious crime in South Africa and carries harsh penalties of up to 30 years imprisonment upon those found guilty,” said the Spokesperson.
“We encourage the community of Mangaung to continue the good work of reporting these Illegal activities to the nearest police station; alternatively they can contact CENTLEC at (051) 412 2239 or WhatsApp: 069 726 0827 or email fraudandcorruption@centlec.co.za.” continued Mamatu.
