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 I have assigned a team of environmentalists from my department to work with Transnet following a pipeline theft incident that resulted in the spillage of crude oil in the Bellair Area, in Durban.

As the department, we wish to indicate that at this stage, we are working with all role-players to implement spill containment measures to prevent damage to the environment.

It is for these reasons that I have undertaken to visit the Umbilo River and all other affected areas in Bellair to assess the damage to the environment.

I will ensure that all spheres of government work in an integrated manner in order to strengthen measures undertaken by Transnet as part of cleaning and rehabilitating the source of the spillage and the harbour.

Critically, we are calling upon communities to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those who are responsible for vandalizing Transnet Pipelines are brought to book.

I have been informed by Transnet that they have recorded over 80 incidents of fuel theft and incidents of attempted theft. They have also recorded cases of tampering with pipeline infrastructure with the intention to steal fuel.

As it has been pointed out in various platforms, Transnet operates and maintains a network of 3800 km of high-pressure petroleum and gas pipelines from Durban to Gauteng across five provinces. 

We have a responsibility as the people of this province to ensure that we protect this valuable infrastructure which is critical for our economy.

Issued by The KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism And Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube