Kimberley – 5 September 2025: The South African Police Service in the Northern Cape welcomes the conviction and sentencing of an undocumented male for essential infrastructure-related crimes, following thorough investigations by the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation (POCI) Unit.
In July 2016, the accused damaged two telecommunications towers belonging to service providers in Warrenton and stole a large number of backup batteries.
Thereafter in February 2017, he committed a similar offence by stealing backup batteries from a primary school in Postmasburg.
After committing these crimes, the accused fled and evaded arrest for several years.
He was eventually tracked down and arrested in Johannesburg in February 2024 through the dedicated efforts of the POCI Unit.
His bail application was successfully opposed by the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Orapeleng Mosala, and he remained in custody until the conclusion of the case.
On Thursday, 4 September 2025, the Barkly West Regional Court convicted and sentenced the accused, Prince Ndlovu (38), to ten (10) years’ imprisonment for damaging essential infrastructure.
The Provincial Commissioner, together with the SAPS Management, commended Detective Sergeant Mosala for his unwavering commitment and diligence in investigating the matter, ensuring the arrest, conviction, and sentencing of the offender.
The SAPS urges community members to report incidents of essential infrastructure damage or theft anonymously by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS App.
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Enquiries:
Sergeant Molefi Shemane
071 310 9507
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