Eskom paid R860,000 for a R18,800 pump

Power utility Eskom has arrested six people, including senior staff, for their involvement in alleged fraudulent activity at the Kusile Power Station.

This includes high-level procurement fraud, where investigations revealed that an R18,835 pump was purchased for R857,977 in 2018, leading to a direct financial loss for the utility.

In a joint operation with the the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee, six individuals were arrested for the fraud.

Among those apprehended are a former Kusile Procurement Officer and a Procurement Manager.

The operation began on Friday, 14 March 2025, with the arrest of the former Kusile Procurement Officer by the SAPS.

The following day (15 March 2025), four additional suspects, including the Kusile Procurement Manager, were taken into custody.

Two suspects remain at large, with authorities actively pursuing them, Eskom said.

The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear in the eMalahleni Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 17 March 2025.

“These arrests form part of the ongoing efforts by the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee to address fraud, corruption, and criminal activities within Eskom, its supply chain, and South Africa’s broader energy infrastructure,” Eskom said.

The utility said that its investigations and enforcement efforts against corrupt activities are ongoing.

“By far, the vast majority of our employees demonstrate integrity and dedication, and those who engage in wrongdoing will increasingly face investigation and action,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.

“These arrests send a strong message; corruption and fraud will not be tolerated. Eskom is steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices.”