Business Commended for Key Role in Copper Bust

Media Statement by Minister of Community Safety, Dan Plato

The actions of a business owner this week played a key role in the arrest of four alleged copper thieves and the confiscation of 50 tons of copper valued at about R2.4 million in Brackenfell.

I wish to commend the vigilance of the scrapyard owner and his staff, whose tip-off to the authorities aided police to bust the perpetrators.

I am informed that the private scrapyard owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, was approached by the suspects who wanted to sell two containers of granulated copper to him. The businessman suspected foul play and contacted the police. The integrated efforts of the SAPS Firearms, Liquor and Second-Hand Goods Control Unit, Provincial SAPS members and the SAPS Crime Intelligence Division led to the arrests.

The assistance of community members to bring criminals to book is key to increasing safety and I urge the public to follow this example and report suspicious activities and crime to the police.