Kathu SAPS Crime Prevention unit clamps down on suspected copper cable thieves.
MEMBERS of the Kathu SAPS Crime Prevention unit arrested three suspects for possession of suspected stolen copper cable on the weekend.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Mashay Gamieldien said the first suspect was arrested for allegedly stealing copper cable at the local mall.
“At about 5.50pm on Saturday, July 17, police officials responded to a complaint of copper theft at the Kathu Village Mall. Upon arrival at the mall the members consulted with the security guards, who had caught the suspect allegedly busy stealing copper wire. The members viewed the CCTV footage and confirmed that it was indeed the suspect. At about 6.20pm, the 25-year-old suspect was arrested and copper wire valued at R500 was found in his possession,” said Gamieldien.
She added that the suspect led them to a second suspect during the interrogation process.
“The suspect led the members to New Stand informal settlement in Mapoteng, where he allegedly sold the copper cable for R140. On arrival at the location, the members discovered a storeroom full of copper cables. When the owner of the house failed to produce any documentation for the copper, he was then arrested. The members arrested the 65-year-old on charges of possession of suspected stolen copper cable and confiscated copper cables with an estimated value of R7,000.”
Gamieldien said the members made a third arrest at another house located behind the 65-year-old suspect’s home.
“The members spotted copper cables at the said house and after questioning the owner he was unable to produce documentation for the possession of the copper cables. The members arrested the 36-year-old man for possession of suspected stolen copper cable with an estimated value of R10,000.”
She said that all three suspects are expected to appear in the Kathu Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of possession of suspected stolen copper cable.
The Kathu acting station commander, Captain Brendell, commended the team for their thorough investigation that led to the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of the copper cables.
