IN recent months cases of copper pipe and copper cable theft have continued despite arrests and seizures by law enforcement.

In the last two months of 2025, several cases were reported, with incidents on Old Mill Way (Durban North), Tyger Avenue (Kenville), Umgeni Road (Durban) and Island Circle (Riverhorse Valley) to name a few.

Local security companies, together with the SAPS, helped in the arrest and recovery of stolen materials, however, the crime trend persists.

According to the eThekwini Municipality, copper cable theft poses a serious threat to service delivery and the City spent more than R40m to replace tons of stolen cables last year.

Also read: Suspects use Bluetooth scanners to detect electronic devices 

The City added it lost revenue of R785m owing to the illegal practice.

While government in 2022 introduced a temporary ban on the export of scrap copper cable and certain metals to disrupt criminal syndicates, thefts continue.

In the latest incident on Saturday, January 3, one suspect was arrested after he was spotted tampering with copper pipes on a property in Durban North.

The suspect had also stolen a wheelie bin from the property, presumably to transport the stolen materials.

Both law enforcement and the city encouraged residents to report cable theft, saying it impacts negatively on businesses and residents.

You can report cable theft on 031 311 9611.

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