By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 June 2025- The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it has accomplished significant operational successes in terms of crimes related to essential infrastructure, however the prevention and policing of these crimes remains a priority. The SAPS said a Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 clearly states that it is a criminal offence to tamper, destroy or damage essential infrastructure. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said it is also an offence to collude with, or assist another person in any such activity. Kock said offences which may interfere with the provision of a basic service relating to energy, transport, water, sanitation and communication are covered under the act. 

He further said if convicted, it provides a severe penalty of imprisonment. Kock added that precautionary measures can be implemented to prevent these crimes.

“Install physical deterrents such as fences, impact resistant glass and strong locks and doors. Have bright security lights inside and outside the property. Clean up vandalism and remove or repair any damaged item as soon as possible.

“Install video surveillance. Hire security service companies to provide security guards. The SAPS encourages the community to report suspicious behaviour and activities related to cable theft. The public and second hand goods dealers must discourage the market for stolen goods by refusing to purchase these items from criminals,” he said.

Kock said authorities should educate the public and raise awareness about the dangers of cable theft and the importance of reporting it. He said they warn that cable theft is a criminal offence and unlawful and intentional tampering with or damaging or destroying of essential infrastructure, and provides for the possibility of the imposition of a severe penalty, namely imprisonment which may be up to 30 years.

“The public is urged to report incidents of this nature to the police via the MySAPS app or 08600 10111. Alternatively report incidents to the 24-hour Toll-Free Number 0800 222 771 to report incidents to the Cable Theft Unit.

“Incidents of extortion can be reported to the National Hotline at 0800 911 011. All information will be treated confidentially,” said Kock.

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