The United National Transport Union (UNTU) has called for an urgent investigation into a cable theft incident at Transnet Engineering’s Uitenhage Plant during the 2024 festive season. The theft, estimated to cost Transnet nearly R1 million in repairs, caused significant financial and operational losses.
UNTU suspects sabotage, citing the precision with which thieves stripped critical heavy-duty cables and smashed computer servers without signs of forced entry. The union believes this may have been an inside job aimed at destabilising Transnet Engineering.
The incident highlights the failure of private security services to safeguard the premises. UNTU criticised Transnet for not installing security cameras, despite prior recommendations after a similar incident in 2023.
Labelling the act as treasonous, UNTU demands that cable theft at state entities be classified as treason due to its economic impact. The union also expressed frustration at Transnet Management’s lack of urgency and demands a transparent investigation, accountability for the security company, and stronger preventive measures.
