Following the recent harsh sentences delivered to cable thieves in the Wellington Magistrates’ Court and the Paarl Regional Court, Drakenstein Municipality celebrates another victory over these unscrupulous criminals.
Last week, in a joint effort among different entities of the South African Police Service, a number of arrests were made in Simondium. A tip-off just after midnight on Monday regarding cables being cut in the area, led to officers of the Cable Theft Unit and other police to investigate.
In their operation they recovered about 400 m of cable, while about 200 m remains missing. While still on patrol a suspicious-looking vehicle was pulled over and some of the stolen cables were recovered. The suspects were detained and charged, in terms of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act 2015, of being in possession of stolen goods.
With police already on the scene, staff of Drakenstein Municipality’s Electro-Technical Services division arrived. When they wanted to isolate the breakers they discovered a second area opposite the Shell garage where there was also cable missing. About 300 m of cables was missing, and 200 m recovered.
In total about 600 m was recovered with about 500 m missing. The Electro-Technical Services crew isolated the affected area and restored the surrounding area’s electricity.
They continued repairs as soon as it became light enough.
The municipality is offering a reward of up to R5 000 to anyone with credible information, which may lead to the successful arrest and conviction of suspects involved in any criminal offence against the municipality. Drakenstein’s residents are urged to report any suspicious activity relating to cable theft to its 24/7 control room at 021 807 8508, or to police. Anonymous tip-offs are welcome and can be sent to the municipality at 021 807 8508 or 080 131 3553 toll-free.
