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The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)
are part of the campaign to prevent electricity theft. They have already begun to
identify and arrest perpetrators, who are not coming off lightly. Charges such as
fraud, racketeering and organised crime will be pressed, and asset forfeiture will
even be used where applicable.
Eskom has advanced technology which enables them to detect businesses and people
who steal electricity – whether through illegal connections, meter tampering or
other sophisticated means. They are also able to pick up on businesses that use
less electricity than considered normal, and are allowed to inspect these businesses
to search for tampered or bypassed meters. Ongoing electricity audits at homes and
business are also conducted to identify culprits / perpetrators. Anyone found to
be involved in these illegal activities will be disconnected and charged a Tamper
Fee. Lost Revenue will then be calculated and recovered from this person, who will
also face criminal charges.
Eskom will also be implementing strict internal enforcement, and suspected employees
will be prosecuted.
There will be zero tolerance, by Eskom, the government and authorities, of this
economy-crippling crime.
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