SASOLBURG — A suspected R1.8 million copper cable theft syndicate was dealt a major blow this week when off-duty task team officers intercepted a truck on the N1 highway, uncovering a massive haul of stolen infrastructure hidden beneath crushed aluminium.
The successful interception occurred on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, at approximately 19:00. Members of the Fezile Dabi District Infrastructure Task Team, who were officially on their rest days, received critical intelligence regarding a vehicle transporting copper cable from Welkom. The tip-off further indicated that the truck was scheduled to pick up additional stolen material at a specific scrapyard located in Kroonstad.
Acting swiftly on the information, the off-duty officers mobilized to track the vehicle. They identified the targeted truck moving in the direction of Gauteng Province along the N1 highway. The pursuit culminated in a successful interception just beyond the Vaal Toll Plaza. An initial search of the vehicle’s first container confirmed the suspicions, revealing multiple bags packed with copper cable.
Following the discovery, police apprehended two male suspects, aged 27 and 59, at the scene. The vehicle and the duo were transported to the Sasolburg SAPS for formal processing. It was during a more thorough secondary inspection at the police station that the full extent of the operation was uncovered. Officers found a second container loaded with additional copper cable, which had been deliberately concealed under bags filled with crushed aluminium cans. The combined estimated value of the confiscated stolen copper stands at R1.8 million.
The arrested men are now facing a slate of serious charges related to the massive cable theft and infrastructure sabotage. They have been formally charged with tampering with and damaging essential infrastructure, alongside possession of suspected stolen property and possession of suspected stolen copper cable. The duo is expected to make their first appearance in the Parys Magistrate’s Court soon.
