Eskom says crime-related incidents fell 13% during the year, while losses dropped to R191 million, as the power utility strengthens efforts to protect infrastructure and improve operations
Image: Eskom
Power utility Eskom has revealed that 505 people were arrested for crimes targeting its infrastructure in the year to March 2026, as the utility steps up efforts to tackle theft, vandalism and sabotage.
Eskom said crime-related incidents fell by 13% during the year, while estimated losses declined by 18% to R191 million. Recoveries increased by 38% to R34 million, although only 13 convictions have been recorded.
The figures were released as Eskom reported a second consecutive profitable year, with group profit after tax more than doubling to R30.3 billion from R14 billion in the previous year.
"Crime-related risks such as the theft of electrical cable, coal, diesel and fuel oil, as well as illegal connections, meter tampering, ghost vending, infrastructure vandalism and sabotage, continue to threaten primary energy security, operational performance, revenue protection and financial sustainability."
The utility added that it had strengthened its security operations during the year, including measures to protect its coal supply chain and critical infrastructure.
"Targeted crime-prevention initiatives and disruptive operations across the coal supply chain supported the detection of potential theft, fraud and adulteration risks.
"Together with strengthened supplier oversight and coal quality verification processes, these interventions contributed to improved confidence in the integrity of coal deliveries".
Eskom said coal security remained a key focus because of its impact on power station performance and reliable electricity supply.
The utility has also introduced new security technology, including a system that allows for real-time monitoring and analysis of incidents. It is further looking at the use of surveillance tools, data analysis and drones to protect its sites.
"This dedicated unit within Group Investigations and Security is focused on addressing high-priority incidents involving organised crime, infrastructure sabotage and significant economic offences through intelligence-driven investigations and rapid response interventions".
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