Suspect found using stolen traffic lights in his home

A suspect arrested in Ekurhuleni this week for stealing traffic signal infrastructure was reportedly found using the stolen traffic lights inside his own home, highlighting the growing problem of infrastructure theft in Gauteng.

The arrest was carried out during a joint operation by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Anti-Cable Theft Unit, Thathazonke Anti-Crime and Theft Unit, and the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate, as part of an intensified effort to curb organised criminal syndicates targeting public road assets.

During the operation, officers recovered several traffic signal lights, control box equipment, and personal items including driving licences and identity documents from the suspect’s residence. The suspect has since been detained at Katlehong SAPS while the investigation continues, with authorities warning that further arrests are possible.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, welcomed the arrest and commended the swift, coordinated action of the law-enforcement teams. “This arrest demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our traffic inspectorate and law-enforcement partners to protect public infrastructure. Traffic signal theft is not a victimless crime; it endangers lives, disrupts mobility, and places an unnecessary burden on the public purse,” said MEC Diale-Tlabela.

She emphasised that the incident highlights both the audacity of criminal elements and the risks posed when public infrastructure is stolen and misused. “In this case, the suspect went so far as to use the stolen traffic lights in his home. This is a stark reminder that those who target our public assets are brazen and need to be held accountable,” Diale-Tlabela added.

The MEC reiterated that the government remains resolute in its fight against infrastructure vandalism and organised crime. “This arrest sends a clear message: those who damage and steal public assets will be found and brought to book. We will continue to strengthen our collaboration with metro police, SAPS, and specialised units to safeguard our roads and traffic management systems,” she said.

She also urged communities to play an active role in protecting public infrastructure, calling on residents to report any suspicious activities around traffic lights, control boxes, and other road assets. “Community vigilance is essential. Together, we can prevent criminals from endangering lives and disrupting traffic,” said Diale-Tlabela.

Traffic signal theft has become a growing concern across Gauteng, as stolen components are often sold or misused, causing safety hazards for motorists and pedestrians alike. The recovery of traffic lights and control equipment in this operation is seen as a major success for the joint law-enforcement teams.

The EMPD Anti-Cable Theft Unit, Thathazonke Anti-Crime and Theft Unit, and the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate have intensified operations in recent months to tackle infrastructure theft and vandalism. Their combined efforts have already disrupted several syndicates involved in similar crimes.

Authorities confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and warned that those found targeting public infrastructure will face legal consequences. Diale-Tlabela reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting road infrastructure and ensuring public safety.