Cable theft is a significant contributor to the frequent power outages plaguing various parts of the municipality, impacting residents severely.
This is why Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, said she is committed to leaving no stone unturned. Her timely tip-off foiled a cable theft attempt, resulting in two arrests by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Metro Police on Thursday, November 7.
Following the tip-off, Metro Police Management mobilised operational units to conduct targeted patrols in surrounding areas, yielding tangible results.
Arrests ensued after two suspects in possession of stolen copper cables were caught at KwaDwesi, Perseverance Road.
Owing to the Executive Mayor’s alertness, Metro Police Acting Commissioner, Advocate Andrew Moses, announced the apprehension of two suspects and the confiscation of copper cables with an estimated value of R24 000.
The suspects were detained at the KwaDwesi police station.
“The Metro Police Department is committed to the fight against vandalism and the theft of municipal infrastructure. We also applaud the vigilance of the Executive Mayor in working with the department and alerting us of a possible crime.
“Vigilant Metro Police officers have issued two arrests on suspects caught with municipal copper cables,” said the Metro Police Acting Commissioner.
Meanwhile, a swift and successful fireworks compliance inspection led to the arrest of a cable theft suspect by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Metro Police on Tuesday, November 5, after the suspect was caught red-handed in possession of stolen copper cables hidden in a storeroom.
The arrest ensued after the inspection of a spaza shop at Mtyingizane Street in KwaNobuhle, Kariega.
Metro Police Acting Commissioner, Advocate Andrew Moses, said following the permitted inspection, arrests were made, and a 200-metre copper cable was confiscated. The suspect was detained at the KwaNobuhle police station.
“The Metro Police is encouraged by the arrest effected today in KwaNobuhle. The municipality is experiencing high levels of cable theft, and this crime undermines the efforts to grow the economy of the city and the region. It impacts greatly on safety and security,” said the Metro Police Acting Commissioner.
He applauded operation response members for their keen vigilance.
Community members are urged to join the fight against cable theft by reporting to the 24-hour room on 041 585 1555 or 041 508 5500.
