Tlhabane Regional Court in the North West has handed down lengthy prison sentences to three Mozambican nationals for theft of copper cables and violating immigration laws. The trio – Andries Chilenge (43), Oscar Tembe (33), and Julius Khoza (46) – received sentences ranging from 13 to 23 years.
The case stems from an incident on November 11, 2023, near Boshoek and the Phokeng railway. The men were caught stealing a 353kg copper railway cable valued at over R146,000. The theft was discovered around 11 p.m. by transit security personnel who found the severed cable during routine patrols.
A swift search operation using a drone and security team led to the suspects' capture near the railway. Police confiscated the stolen cable at the scene.
During the trial, a Transnet investigator testified about the severe consequences of tampering with essential infrastructure, highlighting the disruptions to freight transportation and significant financial losses.
State Prosecutor Mputla urged the court to impose strict penalties, stressing the gravity of the crime.
The court agreed, with the presiding officer noting that the men's actions endangered the community. The sentences are as follows:
Andries Chilenge: 18 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.
Oscar Tembe: 13 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.
Julius Khoza: 23 years for theft and 1 year for contravening the Immigration Act.
The court ordered that the sentences for violating the Immigration Act run concurrently with the theft sentences. After serving their terms, the men will be deported to Mozambique.
Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, lauded the conviction and commended all involved parties. "These sentences demonstrate the National Prosecuting Authority's commitment to fighting crime and delivering justice," she said.
Updated: 17:23 30 January 2025 Thursday
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