South African Airways (SAA) and its subsidiary, South African Airways Technical (SAAT) note the conviction and sentencing of Mr Lucas Sekae, a former Avionics Technician, for the theft of high-value aircraft components.
Following an investigation by SAA Group Security, Forensics and by the South African Police Services (SAPS) conducted between 2019 and 2021, Mr Sekae was linked to a broader criminal syndicate involving SAAT employees and associated private companies. Several individuals have already been arrested, found guilty, and are awaiting sentencing. Mr Sekae was dismissed from SAAT on 13 April 2022 after a disciplinary process.
On 27 February 2026, Mr Sekae was found guilty on three counts of theft. He was sentenced on 11 March 2026 to an effective 18 years’ imprisonment at Kempton Park Regional Court.
SAA Group Chief Executive Officer Prof. John Lamola said, “This conviction reinforces the airlines unequivocal zero-tolerance stance on theft, fraud, corruption, and any conduct that undermines the integrity of our operations. Those who seek to abuse their positions for criminal gain will face the full consequences of the law.”
SAA remains committed to protecting the integrity of its operations and ensuring the highest standards of safety, accountability, and governance and continues to strengthen internal controls, enhance security risk assessments, and implement targeted anti-corruption and theft-prevention measures.
