Two suspects aged 22 and 44 were arrested by Komani Dog Unit (K9), Komani Crime Intelligence (CI) , Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI ), Red Guard Security, Queenstown Rapid Response Unit and Watchful Security on 3 November 2026 at around 13:00 for allegations of possession of suspected stolen property and damage to essential infrastructure.
It is alleged that on 3 November 2026, information was received about 2 suspects who had allegedly loaded copper cables just outside of Komani on the R392 road into their motor vehicle a White Suzuki Ertiga with EC registration number.
A multi-disciplinary intelligence driven operation was immediately mobilised. The vehicle was reported to be heading for Komani area from Blue Rise side. The vehicle was followed by the team and ultimately stopped in Aerodrome Road with two occupants. A search was requested and was granted. Upon a search, 5 bags of copper cables and copper pipes were recovered. The suspects were arrested and a case was opened.
Copper cables and copper pipes weighing 96kg with an estimated value of R12 000-00 were recovered. A white Suzuki Ertiga with an estimated value of R300 000-00 believed to have been used in the commission of a crime was also seized .
Preliminary investigation led the team to one of the suspect's place of residence at Whittlesea where more copper cables and pipes weighing 167 kg worth R20 875-00 were recovered and another case of possession of suspected stolen property and damage to infrastructure was opened at Whittlesea.
The duo is detained at Komani holding cells and will appear before Komani Magistrate's Court on Friday, 06 November 2026.
The extensive damage to infrastructure is condemned by the District Commissioner Major General Rudolph Adolph as it cripples the economy of the country and also negatively affects communication when tower batteries are stolen.
