By OBAKENG MAJE
31 October 2025- Three accused, Letlhogonolo Selaledi (34), Thabang Kgalapa (33) and Kenneth Chauke (34), were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Taung Regional Court for damaging essential infrastructure. Selaledi, Kgapala and Chauke were convicted of tampering with essential infrastructure and each received 15 years of direct imprisonment.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said the conviction stems from an incident that occurred on 12 May 2024 in Pudimoe Township, near Taung, where police received information that three men were digging up copper cables near the Pudimoe Police Station. Gunya said acting swiftly, the police proceeded to the scene and found the accused removing copper cables and loading them onto a truck.
“The stolen cables were valued at R151 778.28. When questioned, the men claimed they had been contracted by Openserve. However, upon verification, the company’s Area Manager confirmed that no such contract existed between Openserve and the accused. The men were immediately arrested on the scene. During the trial, all three pleaded not guilty to the charge of tampering with essential infrastructure.
“The state prosecutor, Rebaona Mokgopa, led evidence from the Openserve Area Manager, who refuted any employment or contractual relationship with the accused.
In aggravation of sentence, Mokgopa emphasised the seriousness of the offence and its broader impact on society, highlighting that the destruction and tampering of infrastructure disrupt essential services such as electricity supply, contributing to challenges like load-shedding,” he said.
Gunya further said in delivering judgment, Magistrate Buti Zulu concurred with the state, describing the accused’s actions as selfish and detrimental to the residents of Pudimoe. He added that Zulu subsequently imposed a sentence of 15 years imprisonment on each of the three men.
Welcoming the outcome, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended Mokgopa, the investigating officer and all stakeholders for their dedication in securing the conviction.
“The NPA remains committed to combating crime and upholding the rule of law. We hope this sentence will serve as a strong deterrent and help safeguard essential infrastructure that is vital to community livelihoods,” said Dr Makhari.
The Guardian 