Transnet Pipelines (TPL) has welcomed the arrest of an alleged fuel theft syndicate member linked to multiple cases across Gauteng, North West and the Free State.

The arrest, executed on March 30 in Witbank, Mpumalanga, follows a targeted intelligence-led operation under Project Impi, a Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation- (DPCI-) led investigation supported by TPL’s security service provider, Bidvest Protea Coin (BPC).

A warrant of arrest was secured by the DPCI investigating officer, after which BPC’s intelligence capability traced the suspect to a residence in Witbank.

Following surveillance, a joint operation between the South African Police Services (SAPS) and BPC led to his arrest at the property.

A search of the premises and associated vehicles uncovered equipment commonly used in pipeline tampering and fuel theft operations, including a generator, grinder, drill equipment, gate valves, pipe fittings and high-pressure hoses, TPL points out.

Two vehicles suspected to be linked to the activities were seized. Containers with traces of petroleum product were also recovered at the property, with samples collected for forensic comparison.

The SAPS Local Criminal Record Centre processed and documented the scene.

“This arrest reflects the significant strength of our law enforcement in tackling fuel theft. These are organised criminal activities that threaten critical infrastructure, disrupt our operations and pose risks to surrounding communities. Our focus remains on identifying, disrupting and prosecuting those involved,” says TPL CE Sibongiseni Khathi.

The accused has since been transferred to Sasolburg, where he appeared in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on April 1.

The matter was postponed to April 9 for further investigation and a bail application.

He remains in custody.

The arrest forms part of broader investigations, where further suspects are being linked to cases across the pipeline network, TPL explains.

The entity urges members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities along pipeline servitudes via the Transnet Tip-Offs Anonymous Hotline: 0800 003 056.