Three people were arrested for – ironically – stealing water in Waterfall and appeared in the Midrand Magistrates’ Court on 11 May.
Suspects were released and the case was closed after the court ruled there was insufficient evidence.
The three suspects had been arrested for stealing 58 000 litres of water from a fire hydrant in Waterfall and had their three trucks impounded.
“It is alleged that the truck drivers were sent by their employers to collect water from the fire hydrants and use it at development sites around the Waterfall area. The court ruled that the employees were not at fault because they were sent by their employers and were unaware that their actions were illegal,” said Midrand’s police spokesperson, Sergeant Matome Tlamela.
The arrests come barely a week after the MMC for Finance, Funzela Ngobeni visited the site. During the MMC’s visit in May, it was established that some water meters were not reading, despite continuous use of water.
It was also discovered that the well-known property developers connected directly to the fire hydrants.
“The illegal activity has been going on for more than two years and further investigations will be taking place to stem out any form of corruption that might still be taking place,” said Tlamela.
The suspects were arrested by the police and Metro police together with the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Service (GFIS) during Operation Buya Mthetho (Bring back the law).
Buya Mthetho was launched earlier in the year aimed at wiping out all forms of corruption through the operation.
People are encouraged by the police to report theft, fraud and corruption activities on the 24-hour tip-off hotline.
Details: Contact the 24-hour tip-off hotline on 080 000 2587.
What judgement or sentence would you find fair for big corporates committing a crime? Share your opinion on Midrand Reporter Facebook page.
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