MPUMALANGA — Two Vaalbank suspects have been remanded in custody after being arrested for the possession of suspected stolen power cables and an unlicensed firearm in Mpumalanga. The apprehension underscores the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) ongoing, zero-tolerance crackdown on infrastructure crime in the province.
The Vaalbank Crime Prevention Team intercepted a white Nissan 1400 bakkie during a routine patrol in Mmakometsane at approximately 02:00 on 15 August 2026. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a cache of power cables, valued at R15,000, concealed at the rear of the bakkie.
During the stop, authorities also discovered a firearm in the possession of the driver. The individual failed to produce a valid firearm license or any legal documentation, resulting in the immediate seizure of the weapon.
The suspects, identified as 24-year-old Luyanda Zulu and 29-year-old Bongani Jiyane, made their first appearance at the Mbibane Magistrate’s Court on 17 August 2026. They face formal charges of possession of suspected stolen property and possession of an unlicensed firearm. The court remanded both individuals in custody until 18 August 2026 to allow for further police investigations.
Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, commended the swift and decisive action of the law enforcement officers involved in the operation.
“The arrest of these two suspects found in possession of power cables and an unlicensed firearm sends a clear message that infrastructure crime will not be tolerated in Mpumalanga,” Lieutenant General Modise stated. “Infrastructure vandalism cripples the economy and disrupts service delivery. I urge the community to continue working with us by reporting suspicious activities around damage to essential infrastructure.”
Both suspects are scheduled to reappear at the Mbibane Magistrate’s Court on 18 August 2026 as investigative procedures continue.
