Sydenham Vispol, together with detectives, conducted an operation in the early hours of Monday, 17 March, targeting illegal scrap metal yards following a rise in copper theft in the Sydenham area.
The operation, led by Sydenham Station Commander Colonel Linda Chiliza and Vispol Commander Lieutenant Colonel Sphephelo Gumede, resulted in the closure of two illegal scrap metal yards operating in Quarry Road West and under the new bridges on uMngeni Road.
Sydenham SAPS communications officer, simo Jili said: ‘These scrap yards were found to be collecting stolen copper pipes and electrical wires, which have been at the centre of ongoing infrastructure theft in the region. During the operation, one suspect was arrested and charged for being in the country illegally and for being in possession of stolen goods. Further crackdowns will continue.”
Sydenham SAPS urges the community to report any suspicious activities related to illegal scrap metal dealing to help curb copper theft, which affects both residents and businesses.
To report illegal scrap yards, contact Station Commander Colonel Linda Chiliza on 079 500 0826.
