DURBAN – The theft of copper cables in the province is crippling the productivity of crucial services in most companies. It also has a negative impact on all the citizens of this province. Operations are in place to curb the theft and damage of the essential infrastructure.

In the early hours of yesterday at 02:10, the Umkomaas Task Team were busy tracing suspects at Umlazi W Section when they noticed three vehicles. When they got closer, they noticed a cable being dragged behind by the tow truck and they gave chase. Three suspects aged between 29 and 44 were placed under arrest for possession of copper cables, tampering and damaging the essential infrastructure.

Among the suspects that were arrested were two Sergeants stationed at Umlazi SAPS. It was established that the copper cables belonged to Telkom. The estimated street value is R267 486-00. The docket was taken by the Hawks who took over the investigation. The suspects are expected to appear before the Umlazi Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 21 June 2021.

This arrest proves that no one is above the law. All rotten apples who are committing criminal activities and hiding behind the SAPS emblem will be brought to book and dealt with harshly.

Source: South Africa Police Service