An alleged copper cable thief was caught red-handed by police after trying to steal electrical cables next to the airport on Thursday, February 3.
According to police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, the incident occurred during broad daylight at approximately 14:15.
“Gqeberha K9-members received and immediately acted on information about a suspect busy stealing electrical cables next to the airport. Upon arrival, members saw one person removing electric cables from a trench leading towards the airport. On seeing the police members approaching, the suspect started running. After several warnings, K9, Max was released and apprehended the 20-year-old suspect,” Naidu explained.
“A spade, pick axe, hammer and a black bag with copper wire and electrical boxes were confiscated,” she added.
“The damage had affected the electric cable supply power to the airport. Cable theft is an ongoing problem in Nelson Mandela Bay and hampers the provision of basic services and impacts on infrastructure. The suspect is detained on a charge relating to the Criminal Matters Amendment Act – damage to infrastructure. He is expected to appear in court soon.”
