The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC, Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has welcomed the successful prosecution and sentencing of Mr Fezile Bho Zama, who has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for housebreaking with the intent to steal and theft. This followed his conviction for vandalising the Ezinqoleni Water Pump Station, where he stole two water pumps and copper cables, severely disrupting water supply to local communities.
MEC Buthelezi believes that the sentencing sends a strong message that law enforcement agencies are up to the task of ridding our communities of criminals who steal and vandalise public infrastructure. “This decisive action sends a strong message that those who vandalise public property will face the full might of the law. Every year, hundreds of millions of rands worth of infrastructure is stolen in KZN municipalities, plunging communities into darkness and causing essential services such as water, sanitation, and electricity to fail. This sabotage has a devastating impact on our communities.”
The MEC has commended the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the Ugu District Municipality’s security team and the Ezinqoleni SAPS, for their role in capturing and successfully prosecuting the suspect. He has also urged all municipalities to strengthen measures aimed at combating the scourge of public infrastructure theft and vandalism that has disrupted service delivery in many communities.
The MEC also encourages residents to report any criminal activities, highlighting that these acts are often perpetrated by individuals within the community.
Issued by the KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs