WELKOM – Police have arrested two foreign nationals after intercepting a vehicle allegedly transporting suspected stolen copper cable worth more than R130 000 in Welkom.

The suspects, aged 35 and 57, were arrested on Tuesday following an intelligence-driven operation by members of the Welkom K9 Unit and a private security company.

According to police, officers received information about suspected stolen copper cable being transported to a second-hand dealership. Acting on the tip-off, police set up a roadblock in Stateway, where they spotted and stopped a silver Toyota Hilux matching the description provided.

A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a large quantity of copper cable concealed beneath cardboard in the load bin.

Police said the two occupants were unable to produce documentation proving lawful ownership or possession of the cable. They were immediately arrested on charges of possession of suspected stolen property.

The recovered copper cable, estimated to be worth more than R130 000, as well as the Toyota Hilux, were confiscated and booked in as evidence while further investigations continue.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court.

The arrest comes amid ongoing concerns over copper cable theft across the region, with the crime continuing to disrupt electricity and telecommunications services, damage public infrastructure and impose significant financial losses on municipalities, businesses and residents.

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