The South African Police Service in the Namakwa District continues to intensify efforts to combat the theft and illegal possession of critical infrastructure, following the arrest of three male suspects in Nababeep on Monday, 27 July 2026.
A search of the premises was conducted with the consent of the occupants, resulting in the discovery of a white bag containing copper cables suspected to have been stolen. The recovered copper cables are valued at approximately R10 197-00.
The Namakwa District Commissioner,Brigadier Schalk Andrews strongly condemned the theft of copper cables and other critical infrastructure, warning that such criminal activities are not petty offences. Infrastructure theft has a detrimental impact on essential service delivery, disrupts communities and causes significant economic losses.
The SAPS will continue to take decisive action against individuals involved in the theft and possession of critical infrastructure and will ensure that offenders are brought before the courts to face the full might of the law.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities involving the theft, transportation or possession of copper cables and other infrastructure. Community cooperation and timely information remain crucial in the collective efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure and protect essential services.
