The King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality commends the joint efforts of KSD Law Enforcement, OR Tambo District Information Collectors and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), which resulted in the recovery of suspected stolen copper cables valued at approximately R40,000.
On Saturday, 10 October 2026, at approximately 11:00, the joint team acted on a tip-off regarding a silver-grey Toyota Avanza in Sitwayi area Silverton with registration number BR90DC.
The vehicle was intercepted and searched, leading to the recovery of four bales of suspected stolen copper cables.
Five suspects were charged with possession of suspected stolen property. Two of the suspects,were additionally charged in terms of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 for allegedly being in South Africa without valid permits.
The suspects were detained at Ngangelizwe SAPS, while the recovered cables were booked as evidence. The case has since been handed over to the DPCI for further investigation.
⚠️ Copper cable theft threatens essential infrastructure and public services. Some of the recovered cables are suspected to have been removed from infrastructure at waterfalls and from holes in the ground, further highlighting the impact of cable theft on public resources and service delivery.
The Municipality applauds all law enforcement officers involved in this operation and thanks community members whose tip-offs help authorities respond to suspected criminal activities.
Residents are urged to continue reporting suspicious activities to the relevant authorities and to avoid confronting suspected criminals themselves.