Two suspects were arrested for being in possession of stolen copper cables with an estimated value of approximately R500 000.
Sergeant Audrey Sefara, the Westonaria Police spokesperson, confirmed the two men aged 29 and 33 were arrested during a police operation on the N12 in Westonaria on Tuesday, 26 November.
“A Mitsubishi bakkie was spotted and stopped by the police. While searching the back of the bakkie, police discovered copper cables hidden underneath boxes. Both occupants could not give satisfactory answers when questioned by the police,” Sefara said.
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She added the arrests came in the wake of Westonaria experiencing power outages due to stolen cables recently.
“The police are working tirelessly to make sure all perpetrators are dealt with,” Sefara said.
Colonel Selvan Moonsamy, Westonaria Police station commander, applauded the police for the arrest.
“Copper cable theft is a huge problem and can cause hospitals, government departments, phone networks and other service providers not to be able to render proper services.”
Moonsamy also said a number copper cable theft cases are under investigation.
“Dealers in second-hand goods should refrain from buying stolen property. The community has to blow the whistle on any illegal activity they see,” Moonsamy said.
Anyone with any information to assist the police can contact Westonaria Police on 011 278 5300 or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
