The Izingolweni Regional Court has imposed a 15-year prison sentence on Fezile Bho Zama for housebreaking with the intent to steal and theft. This decision follows comprehensive investigations conducted by Mr. Mkhomo, Head of Security Services for Ugu District Municipality, in collaboration with the Ezinqoleni SAPS. Zama was found guilty of vandalizing the Ezinqoleni Water Pump Station, where he stole two water pumps and copper cables, thereby disrupting water supply to local communities.

Zama, a resident of Ezinqoleni near the N2, was apprehended in the Murchison area and made several appearances before the Ezinqoleni magistrate court before ultimately pleading guilty to all charges on November 29, 2024. The case was subsequently postponed to December 10, 2024, when he received the 15-year sentence.

Acting Municipal Manager Vela Mazibuko praised the Ugu security team and SAPS for their diligent efforts in capturing the suspect and delivering justice to communities frequently impacted by water supply issues due to infrastructure sabotage.

Ugu Mayor Cllr Sikhumbuzo Mqadi expressed support for the sentence on behalf of the Ugu council, emphasizing that it should serve as a strong warning to all individuals who engage in criminal activities that undermine essential government infrastructure and deny Ugu communities their right to access water.

“Acts of sabotage or criminal activities, such as the theft of cables and batteries, significantly disrupt municipal water infrastructure, leading to adverse effects on water delivery to our communities. The damage inflicted on this infrastructure results in prolonged interruptions to the water supply, leaving communities without essential water services while efforts are made to address the issue.”

The Mayor encouraged residents to report these criminal activities, emphasizing that they are perpetrated by individuals within our own communities.

 

Issued by: Ugu District Municipality

For more information & media queries contact:

Municipal Spokesperson :

France Zama France.Zama@ugu.gov.za