Criminals steal 100 computers from OR Tambo MSTA in eMalahleni
The damage is estimated at R3,5 million.
Unknown persons broke into the OR Tambo Mathematics, Science and Technology Academy (MSTA) at eMalahleni Local Municipality on October 22.
It is alleged that about fifteen suspects who were wearing balaclavas gained access to the building by overcoming security guards on site, and assaulted them before tying them up with electric cables.
The suspects destroyed doors leading to the server room and stole electrical equipment including VR cameras and more than 100 computers and monitors.
“The damage is estimated at R3,5 million, however, the department is to still accurately quantify the cost of the damage,” said Jasper Zwane, spokesperson for education.
Maths,science and technology academy handed over to Mpumalanga
The break-in happened at a time when the department had scheduled to celebrate the MSTA’s fifth anniversary on October 28. A case of business robbery was opened at the Witbank Police Station.
MEC Bonakele Majuba condemned the incident and called on the police to leave no stone unturned until those that are behind this are found and brought to book.
“We cannot allow enemies of progress to triumph. We will continue to make the academy what it is meant to be – a reservoir of progress.
This act is very bad, because it seeks to take our province and its citizens backwards, considering that the OR Tambo MSTA was established as an incubator programme for a mass production of learners that pass mathematics, physical science and technology,” said Majuba.
Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the perpetrators may contact Sgt TM Mokoena on 078-017-6602 or Col Thobejane on 079-891-5845.
