MAN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR DAMAGING ESSENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE
29 May 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR DAMAGING ESSENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Taung, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the 12-year direct imprisonment sentence handed down by the Taung Regional Court to Karabo Mocumi (23) of Dithakwaneng Village. Mocumi was convicted of tampering with or damaging essential infrastructure. The conviction relates to an incident that occurred on 06 April 2024, when Mocumi cut the copper cable connected to a sewage transformer in Reivilo, near Taung in the North West. During the act, the transformer exploded, injuring him. Members of the community who rushed to the scene found Mocumi at the site. Emergency services were called, and he was transported to the hospital for treatment. He was subsequently arrested and released on R500 bail.
Mocumi pleaded guilty to the charge. In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Rebaona Mokgopa argued that crimes of this nature are not only serious and prevalent but also contribute to the national energy crisis commonly known as loadshedding, which disrupts service delivery and harms the economy. Magistrate Bhuti Zulu agreed, noting the impact of such offences on communities and the importance of imposing sentences that serve as a deterrent.
Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the efforts of the prosecutor, the investigating officer, and all stakeholders involved in the case. “This sentence underscores the NPA’s commitment to combating crime and upholding the rule of law. It sends a clear message that tampering with essential infrastructure will not be tolerated,” said Dr Makhari. She expressed hope that the sentence would serve both as a deterrent and as a means of protecting vital public infrastructure that communities rely on daily.
Issued by:
Sivenathi Gunya
Communications Officer – North West Division
National Prosecuting Authority
078 172 9367