Two men found guilty of cable theft were sentenced to a decade in prison.
On Wednesday, 27 May, the Westonaria Regional Court convicted and sentenced Tebogo Mpotso, 32, and Thabo Sedibo, 39, both from Bekkersdal, to 10 years’ direct imprisonment each for having stolen copper cable on 8 March 2019 at Cooke 4 mine.
Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, Bekkersdal Police spokesperson said mine security was conducting their routine patrol duties when they spotted two unknown men inside the mine premises. They gave chase and arrested them after finding them in possession of cable to the value of R16 152.
She said a dedicated member, detective Constable Dzunani Mashele worked tirelessly and professionally with the mine to ensure the pair were found guilty.
Colonel Phumelele Matamela, the Bekkersdal Police station commander commended the member and the prosecution team for a job well done, and added that a good sentence comes with dedication and job insight.
This type of case must serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders as cable theft i
s a national challenge.
“Proper security measures must be in place to alleviate or minimise these cases,” Colonel Matamela said.
