In a recent raid conducted by the City of Cape Town’s Metal Theft Unit in Ravensmead, a range of expensive bikes and essential infrastructure were allegedly discovered among stolen items at a scrap metal dealer’s premises.
The raid was initiated following a complaint of cable theft in progress, which was reported by a member of the public at approximately 2:30 am. Upon arriving at the scene, the members of the Metal Theft Unit noticed a person fleeing from the area. They then entered the yard and identified themselves to the individual claiming to be the owner of the property. After obtaining permission to search for the suspect, the officers stumbled upon bags of scrap metal resembling stolen items. They further questioned the owner about his involvement in scrap metal dealing, to which he admitted.
During their investigation, the authorities found what appeared to be essential infrastructure inside the premises. Additional items linked to essential infrastructure were also recovered from the outside of the property. Moreover, a variety of expensive bicycles were discovered, all of which had their serial numbers removed, raising further suspicion.
As a result of the raid, two suspects were apprehended for possessing allegedly stolen property under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act 18 of 2015 and the Second Hand Goods Act 6/2009. LEAP officers provided assistance in detaining the suspects. Subsequently, the seized items, including mixed copper, brass copper, aluminum, PRASA signal cable, PRASA cable, water meters, scales, and several mountain bicycles (Silverback, Raleigh, Scott, Cloudbutler, and Titan), were handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) as evidence.
The investigating officer at Ravensmead SAPS has requested anyone who recognizes any of the mountain bikes as their own to come forward and provide relevant information. The officer can be contacted at the provided numbers, or individuals can choose to remain anonymous by reaching out to Crime Stop or Crime Line.
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of cable theft and the illegal scrap metal trade in Cape Town. Such theft not only disrupts essential services but also poses a safety risk to the public. The City of Cape Town’s Metal Theft Unit continues to diligently investigate and clamp down on these criminal activities.
The recovered items will now undergo further examination by the authorities to determine their origins and rightful owners. The successful raid serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting suspicious activities and working together to combat crime in our communities.
