KEY POINTS
- Seven suspects were caught red-handed stealing copper cables.
- Authorities seized 123kg of stolen copper and 28kg of PVC wire.
- The suspects will appear in court on February 13 for theft charges.
A routine patrol in the West Coast National Park took an unexpected turn when authorities stumbled upon a group of suspects cutting copper cables in the dark.
A joint operation involving South African National Parks (SANParks), Langebaan police, the K9 Unit West Coast, and the Rural Flying Squad resulted in the arrest of seven suspects in possession of stolen copper cables weighing 123kg and valued at R17,835 ($965), along with 28kg of PVC wire.
According to IOL, the arrests took place in the early hours of Monday, February 10, after SANParks rangers noticed suspicious activity in the park.
Western Cape police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana said officers discovered that a farm gate, previously intact, had been cut open and secured with a cable tie, raising immediate suspicion.
Authorities, aware that copper theft has been an ongoing issue in the area, called for reinforcements before moving in to investigate further.
Suspects caught in the act of cable theft
As officers approached, they found four men actively cutting copper cables and immediately took them into custody.
Police continued their patrols and arrested three additional suspects. They also seized the vehicle, which they believe the suspects used in the crime.
Copper theft has become a growing problem in South Africa, causing severe damage to infrastructure and resulting in costly repairs.
Manyana emphasized that these crimes disrupt essential services. He also warned that damaged electrical and communication lines pose a serious risk to public safety.
Police have taken the seven suspects, aged between 32 and 51, into custody. They will appear in the Hopefield Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, February 13, to face charges related to theft and damage to infrastructure.
Ongoing efforts to combat copper theft
Authorities have intensified efforts to combat copper theft across the country, with more patrols and stricter penalties for those involved.
The South African government and law enforcement agencies have worked together to dismantle syndicates responsible for cable theft. They also aim to protect national infrastructure from further losses.
Individuals living in areas prone to cable theft must report strange behavior, as it might indicate criminal actions.
The law enforcement agencies continue their dedication to protecting public facilities and pursuing offenders until they receive justice according to Manyana.
Authorities are currently investigating to reveal the complete extent of the ongoing criminal operation.
They also aim to determine whether the suspects belong to a larger criminal network involved in copper theft.
