Eskom recorded 505 arrests linked to crimes targeting its infrastructure in the year to March 2026 as the power utility intensified efforts against theft, vandalism and sabotage.

The utility said crime-related incidents declined by 13% during the period, while estimated financial losses dropped by 18% to R191 million.

Recoveries increased by 38% to R34 million.

Despite the number of arrests, Eskom recorded only 13 convictions during the year.

Infrastructure crime remains a major threat

Eskom said criminal activity continues to threaten its operations, revenue and financial sustainability.

The utility identified the theft of electrical cables, coal, diesel and fuel oil among its key concerns.

Illegal connections, meter tampering, ghost vending, infrastructure vandalism and sabotage also remain significant risks.

Eskom said these crimes threaten primary energy security and can affect operational performance.

The figures were released as Eskom reported its second consecutive profitable year. Group profit after tax more than doubled from R14 billion to R30.3 billion.

Coal supply chain security strengthened

Eskom said it strengthened security measures around critical infrastructure and its coal supply chain during the financial year.

Targeted crime-prevention operations were used to identify potential theft, fraud and coal adulteration.

The utility said stronger supplier oversight and coal-quality verification also improved confidence in the integrity of coal deliveries.

Coal security remains a priority because of its impact on power station performance and the reliability of electricity supply.

Eskom turns to new security technology

The utility has also introduced technology aimed at strengthening its response to infrastructure crime.

This includes a system capable of monitoring and analysing security incidents in real time.

Eskom is also exploring increased use of surveillance tools, data analysis and drones to protect its sites.

A dedicated unit within Eskom’s Group Investigations and Security division is focusing on high-priority cases involving organised crime, infrastructure sabotage and major economic offences.

The utility said the team uses intelligence-led investigations and rapid-response interventions to tackle these threats.

While arrests and recoveries increased during the year, Eskom’s figures show infrastructure crime continues to pose a significant challenge, with R191 million in estimated losses still recorded.