A South African court in Middelburg has sentenced Eskom supplier, Ms Jessie Phindile Kubheka, to 12 years’ imprisonment for fraud. Five years of the sentence were suspended under strict conditions.
She was also handed a four-year sentence for money laundering, which was similarly suspended for five years. Additionally, the court ordered her to repay Eskom a total of R2,595,000.00.
The sentencing relates to a 2020 case in which Eskom investigations uncovered a syndicate that was paid to deliver three containers to Tutuka Power Station.
Eskom’s investigation confirmed that only one container was delivered—and it failed to meet the utility’s specifications.
Although each container was valued at R60,000, the invoiced amount was grossly inflated. Through the use of overpriced invoices, the scheme defrauded Eskom of R2,595,000.00.
“Our commitment to eliminating corruption remains unwavering, and these developments send a clear message: fraud and corruption will not be tolerated. The vast majority of Eskom employees act with integrity and dedication. We will pursue those who betray the organisation and the country, in partnership with law enforcement, and seek prosecutions wherever possible,” said Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.
To strengthen governance and accelerate investigations, Eskom has consolidated its forensic, security, and investigative functions into the Group Investigations and Security (GIS) Division, which reports directly to the Group Chief Executive.
Working closely with the NATJOINTS Energy Safety and Security Committee, GIS ensures swift action against fraud and corruption—protecting Eskom’s assets and maintaining public trust.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Discover more from Energy News Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.