A cable theft syndicate was busted after two years of stealing copper cables in Edleen.
Two security companies, that had been working together, arrested one man on February 11. His partners in crime managed to flee.
Willmar Security, a neighbourhood watch company, together with CPI (Combined Private Investigation), which specialise in cable theft, helped bring the thief to justice.
According to the owner of Willmar Security, cable theft had been an ongoing problem in Edleen ext 3 the past two years.
“Willmar Security and CPI have been watching these guys closely, who we believe might be the same group of people. Finally this time we managed to get one,” the owner said.
“Security officers from Willmar were patrolling on February 10 and spotted them at about 2am but couldn’t get to them before they ran off. They were in the vlei area between Soutpansberg Drive and De Villiers Street.
“The officers went back the next day and this time called on the help of CPI. The group came back at about 3am. And that was when the officers pounced on them.”
When the suspects saw the officers, they fled into the long grass in the vlei, in which one was caught hiding. The suspect was apprehended and the police called to the scene. He was found with 13m of copper cable as well as tools with him such as a spade, pick and knife.
Norkem Park SAPS spokesman, Capt Lesibana Molokomme, confirmed that a case of possession of stolen copper cable had been opened.
The owner of Willmar Security said the suspect told them he was from Phomolong, Tembisa.
“Thank you to all those who were involved in the bust. Willmar Security and CPI will continue to work hand in hand to combat not only cable theft but crime as a whole.”
