A Mozambican national has received a 15-year prison sentence for the theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure.
The sentencing was carried out on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.
SENTENCE TERMS
According to the City of Johannesburg, the perpetrator – identified as Francisco Mathe – conducted the theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure.
Mathe received 15 years’ imprisonment for tampering with essential infrastructure as well as a further two years’ imprisonment for being in South Africa illegally.
Per the court’s ruling, the two-year sentence will run concurrently with the 15-year sentence. The authorities will deport Mathe to Mozambique upon the completion of his jail term.
JRA WELCOMES SENTENCING
Zweli Nyathi, the CEO of the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), welcomed the prosecution and sentencing of Mathe in relation to infrastructure crimes in Johannesburg.
“While this may seem like a single victory in a vast challenge, the JRA is encouraged by this sentencing,” said Nyathi. “Previously, suspects were often released due to administrative or legal hurdles. This outcome sends a clear message: tampering with City assets is a serious criminal offence that carries a heavy price.”
Councillor Kenny Kunene, Joburg’s MMC for Transport, echoed the sentiment: “The JRA has collaborated with the South African Police Services, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, Crime Prevention Wardens and private security firms.
“This outcome is a testament to the fact that no one is above the law. This success highlights our commitment to combating the rampant vandalism and theft that costs the City millions annually.”
INFRASTRUCTURE THEFT IN JOHANNESBURG
Infrastructure theft and ongoing vandalism are persistent issues in Johannesburg. The JRA reports approximately 26 cases specifically related to copper cable theft between 2022 and 2026.
Frequently targeted infrastructure includes:
- Traffic light cables, monitors and poles
- Guardrails, barriers and fencing posts
- Street name poles
- Steel grid inlets, steel reinforcements and kerb inlet tops.
Without this important infrastructure, it can seriously endanger road users and hamper service delivery.
If you are a scrapyard dealer in Joburg, you should refuse to buy any City- or JRA-branded assets.
As for residents, you can report acts of infrastructure theft and vandalism by contacting the City’s call centre at 0860 562 874, the South African Police Service or the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department.
