Central SA
Alleged municipal workers arrested for copper cable theft─── 15:42 Fri, 20 Dec 2019
Police in the Free State has arrested two men, believed to be employees of the Matjhabeng Municipality after they were found in possession of copper cables worth R120 000 in Odendaalsrus.
The duo was also found in possession of equipment allegedly used for housebreaking. According to police spokesperson, Motantsi Makhele, they responded to a call from the municipal security, who directed them to the municipal workshop. One suspect was arrested on the premises while two others took off leaving behind a vehicle that is confirmed to belong to one of the municipality’s electricians. The second suspect was arrested while visiting his arrested counterpart after police identified him as one of the suspects who fled the scene. The two is expected to appear before the Odendaalsrus Magistrate Court today on charges of burglary and theft.
OFM News previously reported that police in the province have opened a case of theft of copper cables in October this year. This, after more than 50 metres copper cables worth R70 000 were stolen at Tempest Road in Welkom, which left Reitz Park and surrounding areas without electricity.
OFM News/ Marvin Ntsane
