Three arrested as police crack down on essential infrastructure crimes
The suspects will appear in court soon after being linked to the sale of stolen property.
Police arrested three suspects linked to the sale of stolen property in Temba in the north of Tshwane on February 12.
The arrests were a result of an operation aimed at curbing illegal trade in stolen infrastructure.
Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said the officers were investigating a second-hand goods business for possible involvement in the sale of stolen items, particularly those linked to essential infrastructure such as electricity and communication systems.
Van Dyk said the investigation led to one suspect being apprehended for possession of stolen property.
It was discovered that a Vodacom fibre distribution box and bundles of copper weighing 16kg were stored at his premises.
“Additionally, an undisclosed amount of cash was seized, which is believed to have been obtained through the illegal trade of these stolen goods.”
He said two other individuals were arrested and charged with possession of stolen property and tampering with essential infrastructure.
“Among the items recovered were parts of an Eskom electricity tower structure. Eskom representatives confirmed the tower pieces as company property, further implicating the suspects in the crime.”
Tshwane district commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine commended the officers for their efforts in disrupting the illegal trade that compromises essential infrastructure.
“This operation is crucial to ensuring the protection of our vital services and the livelihood of our communities.
“We will continue to regulate second-hand goods dealers and track down those involved in such destructive crimes,” said Thine.
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