On the night of 15 January 2025 at approximately 22:00, an intelligence-driven operation was successfully carried out in collaboration with the East London POPS team. The operation culminated in the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Mdantsane, where suspects was apprehended in possession of suspected stolen copper.
The recovered copper, valued at an estimated amount of R300000, included thirty bags of copper, one fully packed crate, and a weighing scale. In addition to the copper, an undisclosed amount of cash was confiscated.
The couple was detained at Mdantsane Police Station in connection with the case. Transnet’s specialized copper experts and investigators were called to the scene for identification and further verification of the recovered materials.
The ongoing investigation aims to ensure that those responsible for the theft, damage, and tampering of critical infrastructure are held accountable, safeguarding Transnet’s assets and contributing to the protection of national resources.
This operation underscores the continued commitment to fighting crimes that impact essential infrastructure and to enhancing public safety in the region.
They are due to appear at East London Magistrate court on Friday, 17 January 2025.
Crime intelligence-driven operation resulted in the arrest of suspects in possession of suspected stolen copper https://t.co/pjkrqaMUyw#ArriveAlive #StolenCopper #Operation @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/htqOCjI8Za
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) January 16, 2025
