By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Four suspects, including two Mozambican nationals, were apprehended after allegedly ignoring orders from law enforcement while transporting suspected stolen copper cables.
The drama reportedly unfolded on Monday 30 September when a Provincial Traffic Officer stopped a Toyota Hilux double cab bakkie loaded with copper cables at the Kinross weigh bridge.
According to the spokesperson for the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Captain Dineo Sekgotodi, The driver ignored the officer’s instructions and sped off, leading to a thrilling chase.
The bakkie is said to have eventually overturned, and the determined officer apprehended the suspects. The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team took over, arresting three African males and later a 40-year-old male based on their alibi.
“ The multidisciplinary team reportedly followed up information which led them to a farm where the Eskom truck had dropped a consignment of copper cables. During investigation, It was discovered that copper cables were stripped and burnt. During the search, more copper cables(stripped and unstripped) were recovered,” said Sekgotodi.
She added that the law enforcement team proceeded to Tutuka Eskom Power Station where the cables were stolen from.
“ The exhibits and the bakkie were seized and taken to Evander police station for safekeeping,” said Sekgotodi.
The four suspects will reportedly make an appearance at the Evander Magistrate’s Court.
