Doorstep cable theft still eludes police

Linden police have still not arrested any suspects in connection with the two incidents of cable theft , that occurred close by their station last month. Cables were stolen about 200 m from the station on the corner of Maid Marion Avenue and Boundary Road, Robindale, on 14 August . The second theft also occurred in Boundary Road, which is the street where the police station is situated, the next day.

Linden police spokesperson Carol Mulamu said on 21 September that no arrests have been made yet but the “police are investigating both cases”. She would not say how it was possible that people could steal cables in the same street as the station, nor whether a cable theft syndicate was operating in the area around the station. When asked how long it takes to cut overhead cables and drive away without being noticed, she responded, “Police cannot confirm how long it takes for people to cut cables or steal it.”

Ward 99 councillor Bruce Herbert said that he was not aware of the cable thefts, but new overhead Aerial Bundle Conductor (ABC) cables are being installed in Ward 99. These contain no copper, for which reason he says there will be “no reason” for people to steal these new cables.

City Power spokesperson Sydney Mphahlele also highlighted the installation of the ABC cables, and said that “City Power conducts roadshows in communities severely affected by incidents of cable theft and vandalism and creates awareness about the importance of reporting cable theft and vandalism of electricity network[s]”.

When the thefts first happened, Chairperson of the Linden Community Policing Forum Jadd Harding said that “a lot” of cable theft had occurred in Linden, Robindale and Robin Acres recently. About eight residents said they believe a cable theft syndicate is operating in their area.

Details: Linden police 011 888 9212; City Power 011 375 5555;
Ward 99 councillor Bruce Herbert 083 274 3551.