4 arrested who allegedly sabotaged Transnet’s fuel pipeline WRITTEN BY Ronelle Snyders

The arrests followed after a well leading to a Transnet fuel pipeline was found.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has launched further investigations into four people who were arrested after discovering a well leading to a Transnet fuel pipeline that runs through Thina Sonke HOP homes.

The suspects, aged between 25 and 70, were arrested on Wednesday.

Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha, spokesperson for the Hawks, said the four were charged for their suspected involvement in tampering with essential infrastructure and fuel theft.

“It was reported that when security personnel from Protea Coin reported for duty on Wednesday, 05 February 2025, at around 06:00, they received a report of a leak in the Transnet pipeline between Drie Riviere, Vereeniging and Alrode.

“While patrolling the pipeline, they arrived at Thina Sonke, and it was clear that there was a smell of petrol in the area. Police were called to the scene, and after a thorough scan of the area, an address was identified where an excavated hole was discovered. It was equipped with a pipe that is used to drain fuel from below,” Ramovha said.

Ramovha added that the four suspects, two of whom were found in the yard where the hole was discovered, were arrested at the scene.

“Pop (Public Order Policing) was called to the scene when the residents began to crowd. Disaster management and firefighters were also on hand to ensure the safety aspects of the scene and to determine if the community needed to be evacuated. Repairs to the pipeline are underway.

“The arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Friday, February 7, 2025,” Ramovha said.

SOURCE:4 arrested who allegedly sabotaged Transnet’s fuel pipeline – Volkskrag News