Municipality's electricians charged for possession of stolen cables and appliances

TWO ELECTRICIANS employed at Umsombomvu municipality were released on bail of R500 each after they were arrested in Cradock in the Eastern Cape, where they were found in the possession of electrical appliances and cables believed to be the property of the municipality. 

It is believed that they were in the process of delivering the goods intended for sale that was transported in a municipal bakkie at the time of their arrest on August 20. 

Northern Cape SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the Colesberg SAPS were investigating a case of the use of a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent and theft of electrical appliances. 

“Two municipal workers aged 49 and 60 years, respectively, were arrested in Craddock on August 20 who were in possession of suspected stolen goods that were allegedly stolen from the municipal premises in Noupoort. ”

He added that the accused appeared briefly in the Colesberg magistrates court and were each granted R500 bail.

"The investigation continues,” he said. 

National Prosecuting Authority Northern Cape spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane indicated that the charges against the accused included the use of a vehicle without the owner’s consent, forgery and the theft of ferrous/ non-ferrous metal forming part of essential infrastructure.

“Items have yet to be traced. Both accused handed themselves over to Nxuba police station and they were placed under arrest. The case was transferred to Colesburg as this is where the case was opened and theft occurred.” 

He added that the matter was remanded until October 1 for further investigation.

Umsombomvu municipal manager Themsile Msengana said the officials were charged for theft, using the municipal vehicle without authorisation and stolen electricity equipment.

“They voluntarily reported to the Cradock police station after they learnt that the municipality opened a criminal case regarding this matter.” 

He added that the value of the stolen items was R100,000.

“Normal disciplinary processes will unfold,” he stated. 

Community leader Johannes Williamson condemned the incident and pointed out that it took place at a time when residents were subjected to electricity cuts when they were unable to pay. 

Secretary of the Umsombomvu Residents Association (URA) Abongwe Poyo believed the incident was indicative of “loose controls in the administration”.

“There are reports that these incidents are common occurrences. We expect a thorough investigation into this. We are also disappointed that support was shown by colleagues of the accused when they appeared in court.”