A man arrested in connection with suspected copper and cable-theft equipment was released after the case was not placed on the court roll.
Colonel Masondo confirmed to the Observer that the suspect was arrested on September 26 and charged with possession of house burglary implements.
He appeared in court on the same day, but the case was not enrolled, and he was released. The man is believed to be known as Middelburg’s ‘Copper King’ according to a reliable source.
The arrest followed an early-morning patrol by Mid Alarms in the Buitekant and Walter Sisulu streets area.
Security patrol spots tools
The suspect was allegedly found with a bag containing various tools, equipment, as well as multiple radio’s, believed to be used to communicate during criminal activity.
Further investigation lead to equipment that was allegedly found during an inspection of a property linked to the suspect.
The previous report referred to allegations that the man could be linked to copper and cable theft in and around the Steve Tshwete district. Police have, however, not confirmed that he is linked to any copper-theft cases or other criminal investigations.
The Observer will report any further developments should the case be enrolled.
