A man caught stealing railway cables in Umgababa last year has been handed a nine-year jail sentence.
The thief was spotted atop a pole cutting the cables by a Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa employee.
Police were called and the 20-year-old was arrested.
He made several appearances in the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court before being sentenced last month for theft and tampering with essential infrastructure.
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Investigating officer Detective Warrant Officer DM Cele of Umkomaas Saps was commended by his station commander, Colonel Qinisela Simon Mabida on his excellent investigation – with regards to the conviction.
“We urge the public to report any suspicious activity, tampering with or removal of essential infrastructure,” said Umkomaas Saps communications officer, Captain Ismail Shaik.
Examples of essential infrastructure include Eskom cables and railway cables.
Captain Shaik emphasised that this was a very serious offence and that harsh sentences would be imposed by the courts on those found guilty.
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