Police are warning scrap metal dealers or anyone
buying copper cables through illegal means, that they will be arrested,
charged and their businesses closed down.
This warning follows the theft of copper cables to the value of R1 million dug up from an electrical substation in Struandale yesterday afternoon, January 17.
Police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, said that just before 14:00, the two security guards on duty at the substation were held at gunpoint by three men who arrived in a white LDV bakkie.
“The suspects were wearing reflector jackets and tied up the guards. They were joined by a further five suspects. The underground electrical cable was dug up and loaded into the bakkie,” she said.
“The high incidents of theft and
damage of ferrous and non-ferrous metals lead to a multitude of economic and
socio-economic strains and continue to threaten key industries.”
Nelson Mandela District Commissioner, Maj. Gen. Vuyisile Ncata, stated that the threat of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as
essential infrastructure related crimes remains a priority for the SAPS.
“These damages and theft are tantamount to economic sabotage, therefore
we will make every effort to ensure that these perpetrators are traced,
arrested and convicted. We appeal to the communities to provide
information on criminals who steal or interfere with and damage
infrastructure,” he added.
A case of robbery is being investigated.
Source: SAPS media statement
