A neighbourhood watch, together with Bothasig Vispol Cable-theft Unit officers, responded to a complaint of a theft in progress at a national key-point on Monday 2 November.

Swift response

Officers received a report from the radio-control room about alleged criminal activity targeting city infrastructure and swiftly responded. They swooped on three males caught in the act of stealing copper cables, said Capt Zinzi Hani, Hawks spokesperson.

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Extent of theft and damage

It was discovered some of the copper cables were cut and stolen from the premises. The unpeeled copper is 10 metres long with an estimated value of R80 000. The peeled copper cables have an estimated value of R40 000. The damage to the property of the national key-point has an estimated value of R60 000, said Hani.

Arrest and court appearance

The suspects were immediately arrested and charged with tampering with and damaging essential infrastructure as well as possession of suspected stolen copper cable. All arrested suspects were detained at a local police station and made their first court appearance today, 3 November at the Bellville Magistrates’ Court.

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