Transnet
Transnet Pipelines said the alertness of its tactical response team prevented the theft of fuel from a Multi-Product Pipeline between Durban and Heidelberg on Saturday morning.
Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said while the offenders escaped, a fuel tanker and bakkie were impounded at the scene in the Mooi River area.
She said the Hawks and SAPS are investigating.
“The swift reaction by the tactical teams averted disruption in the security of supply to the Gauteng market and any potential environmental damage,” Phillips said.
She said this past week alone, there had been three fuel theft incidents on the pipelines, which are being investigated by law enforcement authorities.
Phillips said the pipeline is classified as essential infrastructure, and tampering, or colluding to tamper, is a Schedule 5 offence in terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act.
Transnet is appealing to the public to be alert and report suspicious activities as the pipelines traverse many rural, semi-rural, and urban areas.
The toll-free number is 0800 203 843.
