Third Randfontein farmer detained, to appear in Krugersdorp Magistrate Court on Monday

A Randfontein farmer whose transformer was removed during an Eskom electricity theft operation has been detained after handing himself in at the Magalies Police Station.

The farmer is the third individual linked to operations conducted by Eskom in Gauteng on 9 February 2026 aimed at curbing electricity theft and protecting the integrity of the power network.

During the operation, Eskom teams visited the farm and identified a tampered electricity meter. As a result, a transformer on the property was removed. At the time of the inspection, the farm owner was not present and no arrest was made.

However, investigations continued, and the farmer later indicated that he would present himself to authorities on Friday. He has since been detained and formally charged. He is expected to appear before the Krugersdorp Magistrate Court on Monday.

The development follows the arrest of two other farmers in Randfontein on the same day. The first was arrested for allegedly illegally reconnecting electricity after being disconnected due to non-payment of an outstanding account of approximately R1.1 million. The charges also relate to meter tampering and bypassing Eskom infrastructure.

The second farmer was arrested after Eskom teams discovered a 100kVA transformer connected to the network without approval, despite records indicating the property was registered for only a 25kVA transformer.

Eskom confirmed that the removal of illegal transformers during the operation was conducted under live conditions, meaning electricity supply to neighbouring farms was not interrupted. The utility said this reflects its investment in advanced technologies that allow safer and more efficient interventions while minimising disruption to lawful customers.

Electricity theft, meter tampering and illegal connections remain criminal offences. Eskom says such activities place significant strain on infrastructure, pose safety risks and contribute to substantial financial losses annually.

The power utility continues to work closely with the South African Police Service to identify and act against individuals and businesses involved in illegal electricity activities.

Eskom has urged customers to refrain from illegal connections and reminded the public that electricity-related crimes can be reported anonymously via its Crime Line on 08600 37566 or the WhatsApp Tip-Off Line on 081 333 3323.

The case is expected to proceed following the farmer’s court appearance on Monday.