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On 22 October 2025, the Gqeberha New Law Court sentenced Alphios Masangu (38), Lazarus Makhubela (38) and Dion Munyai (37) to 20 years in prison. They were part of a syndicate that looted cellphone towers across four provinces. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) welcomed the ruling as a major victory.
What Happened
Between March and April 2019, the syndicate stole high-capacity batteries from cellphone towers in the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape. Their crimes disrupted vital communication networks and caused costly damage.
After weeks of tracking, the Hawks’ Gqeberha Organised Crime team, working with Riversdale SAPS, intercepted the group on 25 June 2019. A red Volkswagen Golf GTI and a stolen white Ford Ranger were searched. Officers found ten tower batteries worth about R200 000 and access keys. Both vehicles were seized, and five suspects were arrested on the scene.
Official Response
Provincial Hawks Head, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, praised the outcome. “This sentence sends a strong message to criminals targeting South Africa’s critical infrastructure,” he said. The investigation also linked the suspects to several other theft cases.
Community Impact
This conviction is expected to stop future vandalism and theft of telecom equipment. It also restores public confidence in law enforcement. Moreover, improved network reliability will benefit businesses and communities across provinces.
