TO ALL MEDIA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20/10/2025
he cable theft suspects that were arrested on Friday evening made a brief court appearance at the Komani Magistrate Court today. The suspects are allegedly part of a syndicate notorious for stealing and selling copper cables.
Three suspects were arrested on Friday evening, while the fourth was taken into custody over the weekend.
Speaking to the media outside the court, Executive Mayor Madoda Papiyana said, “Our Ward Councillors have a long list of community members who must keep their medication refrigerated. Some businesses are only able to operate when there is power supply. Alternative energy sources are more expensive than electricity and, in some cases, cannot provide sufficient energy required. It is imperative that this barbaric act is alleviated as it only has a negative impact in our society.
When we got here this morning, we were shocked to find out that one of the suspects had been released without a normal bail application process. This is a schedule 5 crime, and all 4 suspects committed the same offence, and it makes no sense why only one was released. We intervened and contacted SAPS, and I am glad to report that he will be back in custody. All are equal before the law.”
The suspects will remain in custody, and their court appearance is scheduled for 27 October. “Theft and damage to electricity infrastructure is a weekly occurrence, and we need the suspects to point out and give the court all necessary information. We have to deal with the root cause and not just the one who cut the cable. We commend the Tactical Response security company and all others who have assisted in the past in curbing this theft scourge by these Izinyoka. He said, “.
END
For More Information
EMLM Communications
