Three arrested for cable theft in Bramley
The swift action of vigilant community members and JMPD officers resulted in the arrest of three alleged cable thieves in Bramley, with stolen goods and tools recovered at the scene.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) arrested three suspects after allegedly being caught in the act of stealing cables on August 10, following a tip-off from alert community members.
The arrests took place near the intersection of Corlett Drive and Louis Botha Avenue, during a routine stop-and-search operation by JMPD Region E officers.
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The operation was triggered by reports from residents who noticed a white Toyota Quantum parked suspiciously on the corner of Corlett and High streets. According to eyewitnesses, the occupants were seen loading electrical cables into the vehicle while pretending to fix it.
When officers arrived at the scene, two suspects attempted to flee, but were quickly caught following a brief foot chase. A third suspect was later discovered hiding inside a manhole.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said the suspects had removed the rear seats of the vehicle to make space for the stolen goods. “Inside, officers recovered 38 pieces of cable, along with a hacksaw, a chain block, and a specialised manhole-opening tool, commonly used in infrastructure crimes.”
All three suspects were detained at Bramley SAPS, and a case of tampering with essential infrastructure has been opened. The investigation remains ongoing.
“We urge residents to continue reporting suspicious activity,” said Fihla. “It is through this kind of partnership between law enforcement and the public that we can effectively fight back against the sabotage of our city’s infrastructure.”
JMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca also applauded the efforts of the officers and the public. “We commend the public for their swift action and co-operation, which was crucial in the success of this operation. The JMPD remains committed to combating cable theft and protecting our city’s vital infrastructure. These arrests send a clear message that we will not tolerate criminal activity that disrupts essential services for our residents and businesses.”
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