A former technician employed by South African Airways has been sentenced to 18 years in prison after being convicted for his role in the theft of high-value aircraft components linked to a broader criminal syndicate.
The conviction of Lucas Sekae follows a lengthy investigation into the illegal removal and trafficking of aviation parts from the airline’s technical division.
The case was finalised at the Kempton Park Regional Court, where Sekae was sentenced on 11 March 2026 after being found guilty on three counts of theft.
Investigation Uncovered Wider Syndicate
According to South African Airways Technical, the investigation was conducted between 2019 and 2021 by SAA Group Security and forensic investigators, working alongside the South African Police Service.
The probe linked Sekae to a wider criminal network involving several employees within the technical division as well as associated private companies believed to have been involved in the illicit trade of aircraft components.
Authorities say several suspects connected to the syndicate have already been arrested and found guilty, although some are still awaiting sentencing.
Investigators believe the operation targeted specialised aviation equipment, which typically carries significant value and requires strict regulatory control due to safety implications.
Dismissed After Internal Disciplinary Process
Sekae, who worked as an avionics technician, was dismissed from South African Airways Technical on 13 April 2022 following an internal disciplinary process.
The airline said the internal action formed part of broader efforts to address misconduct and protect the integrity of its technical operations.
While aviation maintenance facilities operate under strict regulatory oversight, cases involving insider theft are not unheard of globally. Aircraft components – particularly avionics equipment – can command high prices in illegal markets, making them attractive targets for organised criminal groups.
SAA Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy
John Lamola, Group Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, said the conviction sends a strong message about the airline’s approach to corruption and criminal activity within its operations.
“This conviction reinforces the airline’s unequivocal zero-tolerance stance on theft, fraud, corruption and any conduct that undermines the integrity of our operations,” Lamola said.
“Those who seek to abuse their positions for criminal gain will face the full consequences of the law.”
Strengthening Security and Governance
South African Airways said it continues to strengthen its internal systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.
These measures include tighter internal controls, enhanced security risk assessments, and targeted anti-corruption initiatives aimed at protecting sensitive aviation assets.
The airline emphasised that maintaining strict operational integrity is essential not only for corporate governance but also for aviation safety, where even a single missing component can have significant implications.
By pursuing criminal charges and cooperating with law enforcement authorities, SAA says it aims to reinforce accountability while protecting the reputation and safety standards of South Africa’s national carrier.
