TWO suspects who were arrested after a multi-disciplinary SAPS operation bust a scrapyard with stolen goods last week are set to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court this morning (Monday, May 26).

Westville SAPS communications officer Captain Elizabeth Squires confirmed the arrest of the suspects aged 19 and 26 who were detained at the Cato Manor police station after the scrapyard in Chesterville was nailed.

The Westville SAPS Crime Prevention Unit was part of the intelligence-driven operation which included various security companies, which followed up on information of a scrapyard operating and receiving stolen property in Chesterville.

It was reported that upon arrival, SAPS members investigated the allegations and the two suspects were arrested and will face charges of dealing in ferrous and non-ferrous metal without a licence or permit, failing to register a business; being in possession of property suspected to be stolen; and tampering, and causing damage to infrastructure.

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Law enforcement recovered large quantities of copper pipes and copper stripped cables as well as multiple brass fittings and taps, including municipal cables.

Two large TCS electronic price scales (150kg & 300kg) were also recovered, along with paraphernalia, tools, and recordings of copper deals.

Pressure hose cleaners, Bosch and Ryobi Grinders as well as reinforcements bar and scaffolding, which were suspected to be stolen from the Sanral N3, were also retrieved by the SAPS from the scrapyard.

Station Commander Colonel Sharon Sihlangu welcomed the arrest in light of the increase of the theft of copper pipes as well as the tampering and damaging of infrastructure in the Westville area.

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