A foreign national truck driver has been arrested for allegedly stealing copper cables belonging to Eskom. The arrest took place on February 16, 2025, along the N1 north near Esja, outside Polokwane. The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, intercepted the truck and ordered the driver to stop. Following permission to search the vehicle, authorities discovered something alarming.
The truck and its two trailers contained 27-ton bags loaded with copper cables, along with five bags filled with aluminum scrap metal. The total value of the haul was estimated at R2 million. Eskom personnel were called to the scene and confirmed that the copper cables were indeed their property, confirming the suspicion of theft.
The 30-year-old foreign national driver was promptly arrested for possession of suspected stolen copper cables and aluminum pieces. He is set to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
The Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the Hawks for their swift action in intercepting the stolen goods, underscoring the importance of tackling such crimes. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat theft and safeguard valuable assets.
