Media Statements

Vandals of critical infrastructure to face harsher punishment

01 June 2016

As from today criminals who steal and vandalise essential infrastructure such as electric cables and water pipes will face harsher punishment if they are found guilty by a court of law. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is pleased to announce that the implementation of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, 2015 will come into effect as from today.  

The Act was signed into law by President Jacob Zuma in terms of section 84 (2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa in December 2015.The Act seeks to provide for stricter measures relating to bail and sentencing in respect of essential infrastructure related offences.

In terms of this new act, only the courts will deal with bail applications for essential infrastructure related crimes. The Act removes the discretion of police officials and prosecutors to grant bail to suspects charged with essential infrastructure related offences. The act further provides for the possibility of up to 30 years imprisonment or a fine not exceeding R100 million in the case of a corporate body.

It is envisaged that Act will boost investor confidence in the country.  “The public sector and the private business cannot operate fully without communication capabilities if Telkom cables are stolen. This situation necessitates drastic legislative intervention,” said Minister Masutha.

As of 29 October 2015 the South African economy lost to a tune of about R5-7 billion per year as result of theft and vandalism of the essential infrastructure. It must also be noted that these types of offences resulted in loss of life and joblessness in some parts of the country. In view of all these, the Department calls on all the communities and the private sector to assist the law enforcement agencies with any information that may lead to the successful prosecution of offenders who commit essential services related crimes.  The Department is of the view that community and business involvement will assist in deterring most offenders from perpetrating crimes of this nature.

Issued by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development          

Enquiries: Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Department of Justice and Correctional services
0836418141
Mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za