The stolen items are reportedly purchased at local scrap yards in Slovo Park, Qwaqwa, without requesting the neccesary ownership details.

Items targeted include copper cables, metal, and household equipment.

This has in the past resulted in residents taking the law into their own hands and resorting to mob justice.

Residents claim they’ve been reporting these incidents to the local police, but to no avail.

However - in speaking to OFM News - Police, Roads, and Transport MEC, William Bulwane, said this was the first he heard of such a problem.

He committed to sending a team to scrap yards to provide oversight and take decisive action if required.

OFM News/Tumelo Khotha