Lumka Mahanjana, the Regional Spokesperson of NPA, provided insights into the case, explaining that Mothelli Theletsane, a former Eskom employee, stands accused of pilfering a Master Vending Unit, used for the distribution of electricity coupons to consumers.

Mahanjana elaborated, saying, "Theletsane, who has since passed away, was employed at Eskom on a contractual basis and worked in the realm of prepaid services, providing support to Eskom's prepaid vending system." She continued, "In his supervisory role, he gained a comprehensive understanding of machine operations and acquired technical expertise related to the Credit Dispensing Units (CDU)."

"Unbeknownst to Eskom, he also came into possession of a Master Vending Unit (MVU), capable of generating unlimited prepaid electricity vouchers, and a handful of CDUs, which he concealed upon leaving Eskom."

"It was uncovered that Theletsane was allegedly running an illicit 'ghost vending' operation, wherein he illicitly produced electricity vouchers exceeding a value of R36 million and distributed them to the public for personal gain," Mahanjana reported.

After Theletsane's demise, the unlawful operation purportedly passed into the hands of his spouse, Thandi Theletsane, and their three sons: Papi and Tebello Theletsane and Sibusiso Migal.

Mahanjana noted, "The operation proved to be so lucrative that it expanded across all nine provinces."

"Through this syndicate, the Theletsane family and their entity, Mothelli Theletsane Holdings and Investment (PTY) Ltd, managed to amass 27 movable and 39 immovable properties valued at over R23 million, using the proceeds of their criminal activities."

The family members are currently on trial, alongside 10 other defendants, including Petrus Mohapi, Donald Rammusi, Victor Mdlalose, Joseph Mdlalose, Florence Mdlalose, Daniel Moleko, Xolani Dube, Lebohang Thabanyana, Raymond Mohapi, and Sebabatso Mbele.

Mahanjana emphasized, "This case underscores the effective collaboration and cooperation between various law enforcement agencies within the NPA, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI). It reflects the NPA's unwavering dedication to ensuring the recovery of funds misappropriated from the government."

The next court appearance for this criminal case is scheduled for November 15th.