A 46-year-old truck driver has been arrested after being caught transporting stolen copper cables worth more than R8 million.
The arrest took place on Friday, 7 February, when members of the Fezile Dabi District Infrastructure Team intercepted the truck during a routine vehicle checkpoint on the N1 at Vaal Plaza, Parys.
According to police spokesperson Sgt. Josephine Rani, the driver’s documents raised suspicions as they indicated that the truck was supposed to be carrying polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cables, weighing approximately 28,200 kg. However, there was no mention of copper cables.
“When officers questioned the driver about the discrepancy, he was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation. His invoices and delivery notes did not match the cargo found in the truck,” Rani said.
Police then searched the truck, a Volvo with a trailer, at around 16:30 and discovered six large bags of stripped copper cables hidden under PVC covers and scrap wires.
Read | Cops recover hijacked truck and stolen copper cables, nab suspect in Gqeberha
“This arrest marks a major breakthrough in the fight against copper cable theft. Such crimes have a devastating impact on critical infrastructure, leading to power outages and service disruptions. The police remain committed to clamping down on these syndicates,” added Rani.
The suspect is facing a charge of possession of stolen copper and remains in custody pending his court appearance.
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