Copper Cable Crooks caught in their tracks

RAILWAY THIEVES JAILED"

Tlhabane/ Rustenburg – The Tlhabane Regional Court handed down hefty prison sentences to three Mozambican nationals on Wednesday 22 January 2025 for theft involving ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as for contravening Section 49(1) of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

The convicted men, Andries Chilenge (43), Oscar Tembe (33), and Julius Khoza (46), received sentences ranging from 13 to 23 years behind bars.

According to Sivenathi Gunya, National Prosecuting Authority communications officer, the charges stem from an incident on 11 November 2023, between Boshoek and the Phokeng railway near Tlhabane. On that fateful evening, transit security personnel discovered a severed 353kg copper railway cable valued at over R146,000. A swift and coordinated response followed, with security officers and a drone deployed to track the culprits. The suspects were apprehended near the railway, and the stolen cable was recovered.

During the trial, a Transnet investigator detailed the grave consequences of tampering with critical infrastructure, highlighting the disruptions to transportation and the financial toll on the economy. State prosecutor Mputla urged the court to impose harsh penalties, citing the severity of the crime.

The sentences are as follows:

• Andries Chilenge: 18 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.
• Oscar Tembe: 13 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.
•  Julius Khoza: 23 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.

The sentences for contravening the Immigration Act will run concurrently with the theft sentences. Upon completing their prison terms, the accused will be deported to Mozambique.

Dr. Rachel Makhari, director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, welcomed the verdict, praising the prosecutor, investigators, and security teams for their dedication. “These sentences underscore the National Prosecuting Authority’s commitment to fighting crime and ensuring that justice is served,” she said.