The Hawks’ Crimes Against the State unit is investigating the damage to the National Key Point after six suspects between the ages of 28 and 47 years were arrested on Saturday 19 September on charges of theft of copper cables and malicious damage to property.

Lt Col Siyabulela Vukubi, Hawks spokesperson, said the suspects are appearing in the Parow Magistrates’ Court today (Monday, 21 September).

Patrol leads to discovery and arrest

On Saturday, Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF) Security along with Metro Police officers were patrolling the National Key Point, the SFF, located at the corner of Plattekloof and Tygerberg Valley Road in Plattekloof. While patrolling, they came across six unknown male suspects carrying bags. When the suspects noticed the Metro Police and security guards, they threw the bags on the ground and fled. A chase ensued and the suspects were subsequently arrested, Vukubi said.

Copper cables and fence breach identified

Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the bags contained copper cables. Two entry points were identified where the suspects gained access through a hole in the fence. The stolen copper was valued at R110 000. The damage to the property of the National Key Point was estimated at R60 000, said Vukubi.

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