GQEBERHA – Police in Gqeberha are warning scrap metal dealers or anyone buying copper cables through illegal means, that they will be arrested, charged and their businesses closed down. The high incidents of theft and damage of ferrous and non-ferrous metals lead to a multitude of economic and socio-economic strains and continue to threaten key industries.

This warning comes following the theft of copper cables to the value of R1 million dug up from an electrical substation in Struandale yesterday afternoon, 17 January 2023. It is alleged that at about 13:45, the two security guards on duty at the substation were held at gunpoint by three men who arrived in a white LDV bakkie. The suspects were wearing reflector jackets and tied up the guards. They were joined by a further 5 suspects.

The underground electrical cable was dug up and loaded into the bakkie.

Police are investigating a case of business robbery.

Nelson Mandela District Commissioner, Maj Gen Vuyisile Ncata stated that the threat of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, as well as essential infrastructure related crimes remains a priority for the SAPS. “These damages and theft is tantamount to economic sabotage therefore we will make every effort to ensure that these perpetrators are traced, arrested and convicted. We appeal to the communities to provide information on criminals who steal or interfere with and damage infrastructure,” added Maj Gen Ncata.

Source: South African Police Service