POTCHEFSTROOM – A total of five men, accused of copper cable theft, has on Tuesday, 10 January 2023, appeared briefly before the Christiana Magistrate’s Court on a charge of possession of suspected stolen property.

The accused court’s appearance stems from their apprehension on Sunday, 08 January 2023 at about 07:15. It is alleged that the accused were travelling from Bloemhof towards the direction of Christiana on the N12 road in a VW Combi, when their vehicle got a puncture. Transnet Security Guards, who were passing by the same route, became suspicious of the vehicle and they allegedly called the police for assistance.

Furthermore, upon arrival of the police at the scene, they found the accused, Nkosibonile Hlwayelo (30), Lawrence Senekane Lebajwa (41), Joshuoa Morolong (37), Teboho Sefole (28) Mohale Tlolotlolo (34). The accused vehicle was searched and the police found copper cables, brass and tools including a bolt cutter and iron saw. All the copper cable, brass and other stolen goods are estimated at the value of R5 000 000.00.

All five accused were immediately arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen property. Four of the accused, Lebajwa, Morolong, Sefole and Tlolotlolo are Lesotho Nationals and had no proper documentation. They will also face an additional charge of contravening the Immigration Act no 13 of 2002, Section 49(1). They were all remanded in custody until their next appearance at the same court on Thursday, 19 January 2023. Investigation into the matter continues.

Source: South African Police Service