An alleged member of a fuel theft syndicate linked to multiple cases across three provinces has been arrested following an intelligence-led operation.
Sam Chavani Maswanganye was arrested on 30 March in Witbank after being traced to a residence in the area. The arrest forms part of Project Impi, a Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) investigation supported by Transnet Pipelines’ security service provider, Bidvest Protea Coin.
A warrant of arrest was secured by the DPCI investigating officer before the joint operation between the South African Police Service and Bidvest Protea Coin.
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. Two vehicles suspected to be linked to the activities were also seized.
Containers with traces of petroleum product were also recovered at the property, with samples collected for forensic comparison.
Maswanganye has been linked to multiple cases across Gauteng, North-West and the Free State.
Sibongiseni Khathi, Transnet Pipelines chief executive, said the arrest reflects the strength of 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,” said Khathi.
Maswanganye appeared in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on 1 April and remained behind bars over the Easter weekend. The matter was postponed to 9 April 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.
Members of the public can report suspicious activities along pipeline servitudes via the Transnet Tip-Offs Anonymous Hotline on 0800 003 056.
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