The Ladysmith K9 Unit was notified of cable theft in progress along the N11 in the early hours of Sunday morning (November 15). It was about 3.30am when officers swooped on the thieves, who were stealing copper cables next to TFS Wholesalers.
When police arrived at the scene, they were met with gunfire.
The officers retaliated and two males, believed to be from Mozambique, were shot dead. Next to the bodies, police found a copper cable that had already been cut.
Also read: Massive textile factory burns down
Four other suspects – two allegedly from Mozambique and one from Zimbabwe, aged between 18 and 34 – were arrested. They have since appeared in the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court for a bail application.
A number of unknown suspects managed to flee and evade capture. Police believe they used a vehicle to make good their getaway. Ladysmith police are investigating a ‘theft of copper cables’ case.
A manhunt for the other suspects is underway and anyone with information that could lead to further arrests is asked to call 0860010111 or use the ‘My SAPS’ App.
Click to receive news links via WhatsApp. Or for the latest news, visit our webpage or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Join us there!
