NORTHERN CAPE – A targeted operation against **stolen copper cables** in **Kimberley** has resulted in the **arrest** of six individuals and the recovery of critical infrastructure materials valued at approximately R16,913.05. The successful bust underscores ongoing provincial efforts to dismantle networks responsible for utility theft and infrastructure sabotage.
The breakthrough occurred on Thursday, 23 July 2026, at approximately 20:10. Acting on intelligence-driven tips, officers attached to the Kimberley Police Station diverted their routine patrols to a specific residential address in the Florianville neighborhood.
Upon reaching the premises, law enforcement personnel discovered five men and one woman, ranging in age from 27 to 53, actively engaged in stripping the metallic wiring. When confronted by officers, the group failed to provide a legitimate or satisfactory explanation regarding the ownership of the materials.
As a result, the suspects were taken into custody. A formal case of possession of suspected stolen property was subsequently opened at the Kimberley Police Station to facilitate further investigation, and the recovered cables were secured as evidence.
Major General Charlotte Makgari, District Commissioner of the Frances Baard District, publicly praised the rapid response of the attending officers. She noted that their swift, intelligence-based action was instrumental in securing both the suspects and the valuable recovered assets.
This operation aligns directly with the South African Police Service in the Northern Cape’s continued mandate to prioritize and combat crimes targeting essential infrastructure. Provincial Management maintains a zero-tolerance approach to utility sabotage, reinforcing that the theft and damage of critical resources remain a top investigative focus across the region.
