News24 reports that the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to three City of Tshwane officials accused of stealing a transformer valued at R7 million.
Kleinbooy Mahlangu was granted bail of R35,000, while Thomas Baloi and Daniel Kubayi were each granted bail of R30,000. The three men face charges of theft of essential infrastructure in connection with a transformer stolen from the Claudius Substation in Laudium last year. In November, the Tshwane Metro Police Department and the police responded to a tip-off regarding a theft in progress at the substation. Upon their arrival, officers discovered cranes, trucks and a City of Tshwane-branded vehicle on site. No proof of work authorisation could be provided to the police, leading to the arrest of 11 people. However, 10 of them were later released from custody due to a lack of evidence. City of Tshwane official, Madimetja Jacob Malebane, who was arrested at the scene, was subsequently granted bail. Following the police investigation, it was determined that Mahlangu, Baloi and Kubayi allegedly fled the scene before the authorities arrived. Warrants of arrest were issued, and the three were apprehended at their respective workplaces on 1 July 2025. Another suspect, Katlego Molepo, 32, believed to be the buyer of the transformer, surrendered to the police and will face a bail hearing on 11 July.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Noxolo Sibiya at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)
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