Copperheads Arrest 'Canon' Thief in Llandudno | Western Cape Government

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Copperheads Arrest 'Canon' Thief in Llandudno

12 December 2010

Members of the City's Metal Theft Unit (the Copperheads) this weekend apprehended one of three people suspected of trying to steal approximately six hundred and fifty kilograms (650 kg) of brass from the historical canon situated on the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

The Copperheads received a call on Saturday night, 11 December, reporting a possible theft underway. Upon arrival at the scene at approximately 23:30, the Copperheads managed to arrest one male, who resides in Steenberg, while the other two (2) suspects fled the scene and are still at large. They did not manage to steal any of the brass they cut off the canon.

"The estimated street value of the six hundred and fifty kilogram (650kg) brass is twenty thousand, eight hundred rand (R20 800). It is still a mystery to the Copperheads as to how the culprits thought they would manage to lower six hundred and fifty kilograms (650 kg) brass off the mountain," said Neil Arendse, Head of the City's Copperheads.

On Friday 10 December 2010, the Copperheads arrested a man for ripping copper pipes from the walls of a sub-station situated at Koeberg Switching Station, next to the N1 Highway by the Koeberg turn-off. The suspect, from Woodstock, was charged with malicious damage to property and for being in possession of stolen goods. The value of the damage done is unknown at this stage.

"The vandalism and theft of infrastructure worth thousands of Rands is a serious concern. The Copperheads have a zero tolerance approach towards this crime. We call upon the community to be our eyes and ears in instances such as these," said Arendse.

The Copperheads can be contacted on 0800 222 771 with any information that might help in their fight.

Issued by:
Communication Department
City of Cape Town

Media Enquiries: 

Neil Arendse (Assistant Chief)
Media Spokesperson
Tel: 021 900 1685
Cell: 078 472 5903