President Cyril Ramaphosa has deployed South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members to safeguard Eskom power stations against criminal activities across the country. This was announced by the Presidency in a statement today. 

SOLDIERS DEPLOYMENT 

Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said 880 military personnel were deployed and the cost of deployment is expected to be over R146 million. "Members of the SANDF employed will assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in protecting Eskom power stations around the country where sabotage, theft and other crimes may threaten the functioning of power stations and the supply of electricity." The Presidency added that the current employment is authorised in accordance with the provisions of Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.  

A CONTINUATION  

Previously, Ramaphosa deployed 2,700 soldiers to protect Eskom power stations from crime and sabotage between March 17 and April 17, 2023. "This announcement is to confirm that military services will continue at Eskom for an extended period of six months. The military together with the SAPS, is tasked with curbing incidents including cable theft, common theft, diesel theft and malicious damage to property with an intent to steal," Magwenya said. Eskom has also reported that their staff commuting to and from work found themselves vulnerable to criminals who robbed them of their personal belongings and work laptops.