Breaking: Northern Cape Cable Thieving Terror groups finally Meets their match

The determination and commitment of members attached to Operation Vala Umgodi led to the arrest of three suspects who were caught red-handed tampering with essential infrastructure.

Members followed up on intelligence-driven information and conducted a waylay operation on Friday, 13 March 2026, on the N8 road between Kimberley and Griekwastad.

During the operation, three suspects aged between 28 and 39 years old were apprehended while allegedly tampering with essential infrastructure.

Police confiscated equipment and tools believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

Addressing crimes related to essential infrastructure remains a priority for the South African Police Service in the Northern Cape.

The police recognise the critical role that essential infrastructure plays in the provision of basic services.

Incidents involving damage to essential infrastructure pose serious risks to public safety and may negatively impact electricity supply, water and sanitation services, communication networks, and transportation systems.

Tampering with, damaging, or destroying essential infrastructure, as well as the receiving or possession of suspected stolen property associated with such infrastructure, constitutes a criminal offence.

The following precautionary measures can be implemented to help curb crimes related to essential infrastructure:

– Install physical deterrents such as fences, impact-resistant barriers, and secure locks and doors.
-Ensure adequate lighting inside and outside the property.
– Remove vandalism and repair any damaged items as soon as possible.
– Install video surveillance systems.
– Consider employing registered security service providers to safeguard premises.

The public is urged to reject and report stolen goods. Purchasing goods obtained through illegal means encourages criminals to continue their unlawful activities.

Community members can assist SAPS in apprehending perpetrators and buyers of stolen goods by:
– Reporting stolen goods; Informing the police about illegal second-hand goods dealers or recyclers; Reporting incidents of copper cable theft; and
– Providing information about criminal activities and the whereabouts of suspects.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected stolen goods, acts of infrastructure theft, suspicious individuals, or unscrupulous dealers to their nearest police station. Information can also be provided anonymously by contacting the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or by using the MySAPS App.

All information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.