The Tshwane Metro Police Department’s (TMPD) Cable Theft Unit achieved a major breakthrough in the ongoing battle against cable theft on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Responding to a complaint in Proclamation Hill, Pretoria West, officers uncovered a suspected cable theft syndicate operating in collaboration with a security guard at the Pretoria West Substation.
Upon arrival at the scene, TMPD officers discovered two male suspects in possession of two rolls of copper cables. Further questioning of the suspects revealed their involvement with a security guard at the substation. The suspects admitted to collaborating with the security guard, who was using his position to facilitate the theft of copper cables.
In a surprising turn of events, the suspects cooperated with the officers, leading them to hidden cables in the bushes. The duo disclosed that they were awaiting the security guard’s signal to collect the stolen cables for sale. Subsequently, a call from the security guard led to his immediate arrest for defeating the ends of justice and conspiracy to commit a crime.
The TMPD Cable Theft Unit successfully recovered all the stolen copper cables, and both suspects were apprehended for possession of suspected stolen copper cables and tampering with essential infrastructure.
In a separate operation conducted on the same day, regional TMPD members carried out a joint operation in Mamelodi, resulting in the arrest of four individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, 68 fines were issued for various road infringements during the drunken driving joint operation.
Meanwhile, in the heart of Pretoria CBD, the TMPD Accident Unit, in collaboration with the Crime Intelligence Unit, arrested an individual for fraud. The suspect operated an office where fraudulent documents from Home Affairs, licensing departments, and other institutions were sold. The office was found stocked with an array of forged documents, including fake licenses, identity documents, bank statements, matric certificates, and doctor’s notes.
Furthermore, TMPD By-laws members, in a joint operation with other stakeholders, cleared the Sunnyside area of illegal street traders. Despite several opportunities to obtain trading licenses, the traders failed to comply with regulations.
The TMPD commends all teams involved for their unwavering efforts in combating crime in Tshwane. Members of the public are encouraged to report cable theft by calling 012 358 1550 or visiting the client service centre in Gezina at the SANAB Building. All reported information will be treated with confidentiality.