30 YEARS’ SENTENCE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE SABOTAGE:
JOAO SHILAULE IMPRISONED

Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine’s cable thief jailed

After a lengthy legal battle, justice was finally served to Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine on Tuesday, 28 May 2024, as the court case concluded with a significant verdict.

Joao Shilaule received a 30-year prison sentence for stealing cables from Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine, located just outside Swartklip. This harsh sentencing sends a strong message: tampering with essential infrastructure leads to severe consequences.

Shilaule, a Mozambican national, not only faces three decades behind bars but also an additional penalty for his illegal immigration status in South Africa.

The mining industry in South Africa suffers significant losses due to cable theft, costing billions each year. Criminal gangs target copper cables, severely disrupting mining operations across the country.

As a world leader in mining, South Africa is renowned for its rich mineral resources, contributing substantially to global production and reserves. South African mining companies are influential players in the international industry.

Copper, widely available and often poorly secured, is particularly vulnerable to theft due to the extensive and remote power networks of mines. Despite seemingly controlled processes, copper remains easy to sell, with thousands of scrap dealers or ‘bucket shops’ ready to trade in stolen metal.

If you witness cable theft, immediately report it to your nearest police station!

Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine, boasting over 40 years of mining experience, is at the forefront of sustainable mining practices. Located in Swartklip, Limpopo, this PGM-producing mine, also known as Union Mine, continues to lead the industry towards a more sustainable future.