New flash
- When announcing their group annual results for the 2024 financial year this week, Eskom revealed a scheme of mass production of illegal prepaid electricity tokens from within its ranks.
As part of the action plan to address electricity theft (non-technical losses), a forensic investigation uncovered the bulk generation of illegal prepaid electricity tokens on Eskom’s online vending systems, for both Key Revision Number (KRN) 1 and KRN 2 prepaid meters. Indications are that this is only likely if there is collusion between Eskom staff and illicit operators who breached controls within the prepaid ecosystem to facilitate the creation and sale of fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens.
Eskom did not reveal how long the illegal scheme has been ongoing or the losses incurred.
A forensic investigation is still underway to identify the root causes and make recommendations for improvement as it progresses. An update from the investigation will be provided once it is finalised. The matter is also being handled by the relevant state investigative authorities.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
