More arrests made in NC’s fight against copper theft

Several types of suspected stolen copper wires were found at a tuck shop in Upington.

A 52-year-old tuck shop owner from Rosedale, Upington, was arrested on Wednesday, 11 January, for being in possession of suspected stolen copper cables and various other products. Different types of electrical tools were also found at the tuck shop.

Sgt Omphile Masegela, Upington corporate communication officer, said the members of the Upington Border Police unit reacted to information received about a tuck shop in Rosedale allegedly buying stolen goods.

Upon visiting the premises, the police members came across 136 kg of copper cables and various copper taps, fittings, and pipes to the estimated value of R25 000.

Masegela said electrical tools such as grinders, drills and extension cords to the estimated value of R20 000 were also found at the tuck shop.

All exhibits were seized and booked in at the police station.

The suspect, who was identified as the owner of the tuck shop, was arrested for possession of suspected stolen goods and is expected to appear in court soon.

• In an unrelated case in Kimberley, two male suspects aged 34 and 36 years, were arrested in Memorial Road.

Sgt Dikeledi Gopane, communication officer of the police in Kimberley, said the suspects were stopped and searched. Multiple rolls of electrical wires valued at R4 500 were found in a large bag in their possession.

Both suspects were arrested and are detained for possession of suspected stolen property. They will soon appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court.

Apart from electrical tools, suspected stolen property such as this gate motor was also found in a tuck shop in Rosedale, Upington.

Multiple rolls of electrical wires, valued at R4 500, were found in the possession of two male suspects who were arrested in Memorial Road, Kimberley.