Cape Town – Seven suspects were reportedly arrested after being found in possession of copper and cables worth an estimated street value of R1.5 million in Ntuzuma, north of Durban.
The copper and cables allegedly belonged to the eThekwini Municipality and Transnet.
Reports said that the illegal scrap metal dealers were allegedly using the stolen copper and cables to manufacture traditional pots.
The police, Metro Police, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, Transnet, Telkom and Eskom were part of the team that raided a house after receiving a tip-off, reported IOL.
This led to the discovery of the stolen copper and cables.
ALSO READ | Cape Town mayor offers R5k reward after PRASA employees shot by alleged cable thieves
“Numerous stripped copper cables were discovered in the yard. While searching the premises, an R5 rifle and round of ammunition were also found,” the report quoted the municipality as saying.
The suspects were expected to appear in court.
TimesLives reported that the eThekwini Municipality was losing around R60 million annually to copper theft, adding that many power outages were a result of cable theft.
The report said that team’s effort in battling cable theft was yielding positive results, with 29 people arrested last month in Hammarsdale.
“The public must report such acts because they compromise the quality of life for residents. Community members must not look away when they are aware of syndicates involved in cable theft, as it disrupts the provision of services,” the report quoted Metro police deputy head Sibonelo Mchunu as saying.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Facebook/ South African Police Service
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Olwethu Mpeshe
