Overview
- Ermelo District Court imposed 20 years for tampering with essential infrastructure and 15 years for theft on Simeon Majaonke Shongwe, with the sentences ordered to run concurrently.
- The November 10, 2022 incident at Camden Power Station caused about R22.7 million in damage after removal of a bearing oil drain plug led to oil loss, shaft overheating and a generator trip.
- Shongwe, 46, was arrested five days after the sabotage, released on R6,000 bail during proceedings, and later convicted following multiple court appearances.
- The Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime unit built the case using forensic evidence, witness testimony and crime‑scene analysis, which officials say proved intentional sabotage.
- Hawks leadership and Eskom welcomed the sentence, with Eskom citing a new Group Investigations and Security Division and coordination with SAPS and the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Priority Committee to strengthen protections.