Polokwane – A 42‑year‑old man has been sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for stealing copper cables and DB boxes.
The incident left Witpoort Hospital, Witpoort Police Station, and the Palala Magistrate’s Court without power for several weeks.
The accused, Makhae Malesela George, was convicted in the Lephalale Regional Court and sentenced.
The charges stem from the theft of copper cables and DB boxes and the destruction of a sewerage pump station near Witpoort Hospital on 10 May 2024.
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said George was arrested the same day after stolen municipal property worth about R150 000 was recovered.
He remained in custody throughout the trial after both his bail applications were denied.
On Thursday, 6 August 2026, the court handed down the following sentences to George:
- Count 1: Tampering with essential infrastructure – 20 years’ imprisonment
- Count 2: Theft of ferrous and non‑ferrous metals forming part of essential infrastructure – 15 years’ imprisonment
- Count 3: Possession of suspected stolen ferrous and non‑ferrous metals – five years’ imprisonment
The court ordered that the sentences on Counts 2 and 3 run concurrently with the 20‑year sentence on Count 1, resulting in an effective sentence of 20 years.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers welcomed the ruling, calling it a significant victory against crimes targeting critical infrastructure.
“Criminal acts that damage essential infrastructure have far‑reaching consequences for communities by disrupting vital public services,” said Lieutenant General Scheepers.
“This sentence demonstrates that criminals who undermine critical infrastructure will face the full might of the law.
“We commend all role players whose commitment ensured that justice was served.”
