By BAKANG MOKOTO
26 June 2025 – As part of an inter-provincial cross-border operation, police in the Northern Cape confiscated suspected stolen copper cables valued at approximately R250 000 from a farm, near Kuruman. The operation was conducted on 24 June 2025, at approximately 10:30am, following a tip-off received regarding the presence of suspected stolen copper cable on the premises.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the SAPS Provincial Second-Hand Goods Office, in collaboration with the Provincial and John Taolo Gaetsewe District Essential Infrastructure Task Teams, MTN, Transnet, and the Second-Hand Goods units from Kuruman and Kathu Police Stations, responded swiftly.
Kock said upon arrival, police allegedly discovered several bags of suspected stolen copper cable valued at approximately R250 000.
“A case of damage to essential infrastructure has been opened. Although no arrests have been made at this stage, police investigations are ongoing. Additionally, the police found more bags containing copper cable estimated at R30 000 in value.
“The day-to-day manager of the premises was issued with a R3 500 fine for contravening the Second-Hand Goods Act, Act 6 of 2009. The operations, conducted between 24 and 26 June 2025 in Kuruman and Kathu, also included compliance inspections at various second-hand goods dealers,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all stakeholders involved for their dedication. She emphasized that the protection of essential infrastructure remains a top priority for the SAPS, and assured that every effort will be made to bring offenders to justice. Otola said the public is urged to report any information relating to similar crimes by contacting SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS app.
“All information will be treated with strict confidentiality,” she said.
The Guardian 