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Media Statement DEWETSDORP – Six individuals have been sentenced to 30 years each for theft and damage to essential infrastructure by the Bloemfontein High Court. This significant sentence follows persistent criminal activities targeting critical infrastructure in Dewetsdorp. On 30 October 2021, Dewetsdorp police received a report of two poles being cut and suspected copper cable theft at the local wastewater treatment plant. Upon arrival, officers confirmed copper cables had been stolen from the transformer. Despite launching an immediate manhunt, the suspects initially evaded the police. A case of damage to infrastructure and theft was subsequently opened for investigation. On 27 November 2021, the same transformer was targeted again by a group of seven suspects, resulting in copper cable theft, water service disruptions and damages totaling R210 000. Police arrested the suspects shortly after the discovery, including five individuals who were in the country illegally. The case was transferred to the Provincial Organised Crime Unit, where Warrant Officers Krokkie Engelbrecht and Eliazer Mohotsi led the investigation. Their meticulous efforts ensured that six suspects—Moleleki Lebusho (22), Thabang Molelu (28), Ramokoatsi Raleting (18), Tshweute Raleting (27), Mokotla Raleting (29), and Thabo Mokhethi (25)—were held accountable for their crimes. One suspect was acquitted during the trial. The National Prosecuting Authority’s Advocate Johan de Vries, in collaboration with investigators, presented a compelling case before Magistrate Sisusa, who concluded that the accused posed a significant threat to the community. The court handed each offender a 15-year sentence for damage to essential infrastructure, another 15 years for theft, and an additional two-month sentence for illegal immigration.
This sentencing serves as a strong warning to anyone involved in damaging or stealing essential infrastructure, which disrupts community services and undermines societal progress.
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