Eskom Arrests Two Randfontein Farmers for Electricity Theft

Eskom in Gauteng has arrested two farmers in Randfontein following targeted operations aimed at curbing electricity theft and protecting the integrity of the national power network.

The arrests, which took place on 9 February 2026, form part of Eskom’s broader campaign to clamp down on illegal electricity activities that continue to strain the country’s already pressured energy system.

According to Eskom, the first farmer was arrested after allegedly reconnecting electricity illegally following disconnection due to non-payment. The outstanding account reportedly amounted to approximately R1.1 million. In addition to the illegal reconnection, Eskom officials cited meter tampering and the bypassing of infrastructure in order to consume electricity unlawfully. Such actions, the utility says, not only constitute criminal offences but also undermine fairness among paying customers.

In a separate case, a second farmer was arrested after Eskom teams discovered an illegally connected transformer on the property. Eskom records indicate that the farm was registered for a 25kVA transformer, yet investigators found a 100kVA transformer connected to the network without approval. The installation of unapproved high-capacity transformers is considered a serious violation of safety standards and electricity regulations. Upgrading transformer capacity without Eskom’s authorisation can place significant strain on local infrastructure, potentially affecting supply stability for neighbouring farms and rural businesses.

See footage from arrest below.

During the same operation, Eskom teams visited a third farm where a transformer was removed after a tampered meter was identified. The owner was not present at the time and no arrest was made. Eskom confirmed that investigations are ongoing and further action may follow.

Notably, Eskom conducted the removal of the illegal transformers under live conditions, meaning electricity supply to surrounding farms was not interrupted. The power utility described this as part of its ongoing investment in advanced technologies and safer intervention methods designed to protect lawful customers from service disruptions during enforcement operations.

Electricity remains a critical input cost for farmers, powering irrigation systems, cold storage facilities, packhouses, security systems and processing equipment. While rising energy costs remain a major concern within the sector, Eskom has reiterated that electricity theft, illegal connections and meter tampering are criminal offences. The utility says it loses significant revenue annually due to electricity theft nationwide — losses that reduce funds available for maintaining infrastructure, strengthening the power grid and improving service delivery.

Eskom says it will continue working closely with the South African Police Service and other stakeholders to identify and act against individuals and businesses involved in illegal electricity activities. The utility has urged all customers, including farmers, to refrain from illegal connections and meter tampering, emphasising that compliance protects both individual operations and the broader farming community.

Illegal activities can be reported anonymously via Eskom’s Crime Line on 08600 37566 or the WhatsApp Tip-Off Line on 081 333 3323. Eskom also extended appreciation to SAPS for its continued partnership in ensuring operations are conducted safely and that perpetrators are brought to book.