Suspected illegal immigrant arrested with stolen copper cables worth R86,000 near postmasburg

A 30-year-old man believed to be a foreign national has been arrested after he was allegedly found with suspected stolen transformer copper cables worth more than R86,000 in Boichoko, near Postmasburg.

In a statement, the police said he was arrested on Thursday following a joint operation involving SAPS Postmasburg Detectives, members of the Visible Policing Unit, and security personnel from a nearby mine.

Police said the detectives were conducting tracing operations at approximately 13:30 when they received information about six men allegedly burning copper cables in the area.

Law enforcement officers responded immediately and moved in on the suspects. However, upon noticing the police presence, the group reportedly fled into the surrounding veld. Police managed to apprehend one suspect during the operation.

A search of the area led to the recovery and seizure of bundles of suspected stolen transformer copper cables with an estimated value of R86,484.20.

The arrested suspect has been charged with possession of suspected stolen property. Police said the Department of Home Affairs will verify the man's immigration status as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched for the remaining five suspects who managed to evade arrest.

ZF Mgcawu District Commissioner Major General Monica Sebili praised the officers and security personnel involved in the operation for their swift action.

She reiterated the South African Police Service's commitment to combating infrastructure-related crimes, warning that the theft, damage, or tampering of essential infrastructure will not be tolerated.

Sebili added that law enforcement agencies will continue working to ensure that those responsible for such crimes are identified, arrested, and brought before the courts.