Suspect in City of Tshwane transformer theft case plans to plead not guilty
Three municipal workers returned to the dock on Friday after their arrest linked to the theft of a R7-million transformer from the Laudium substation.
Three Tshwane municipality workers accused of stealing a R7 million transformer appeared in the Atteridgeville Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 2 July 2025. Picture: Simphiwe Nkosi/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - The Atteridgeville Magistrates Court has heard how one of the three suspects in the transformer theft case plans to plead not guilty.
Three municipal workers returned to the dock on Friday after their arrest linked to the theft of an R7-million transformer from the Laudium substation.
Siphiwe Mahlangu, Thomas Baloyi and Daniel Kubayi, who are all City of Tshwane employees, are applying for bail.
On Friday, the court heard that 45-year-old Mahlangu had no previous convictions, no pending cases or warrants of arrest.
READ: Police in Tshwane arrest 3 municipal workers for theft of R7 million transformer
His attorney, Thabiso Mphahlele, disclosed to the court that in the 90s his client only had a traffic violation, which he paid a fine for.
Mahlangu’s bail statement further stated that he was a father to three minors and the provider for his wife and children.
His lawyer read the statement to the court.
"In the interest of justice, I undertake not to communicate with any State witnesses, influence or destroy any evidence or any other investigated matter against me."
Mahlangu also expressed that, should he be granted bail, he was not a flight risk as he did not have a passport.