(The Post News)- As the saying goes, “Desperate times, call for desperate measures.” Many people say this without doing something, but one woman took it to heart. On the 28th of January 2024, authorities in Mpumalanga issued a search and seizure operation. After they received information about illegal copper cables being harbored in a house in the Mkhuhlu area.
The operation was led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Unit (DPCI). The house was occupied by Nombango Claudia Mogiba. “On arrival at the identified address, permission for the search was granted. During the search in the presence of the accused, a roll of suspected Eskom aluminium cables was found covered with a black sail next to the house.” Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi, spokesperson for the SAPS.
The cables were estimated to be worth R 30 000. Stolen cables are sadly not a new development in South Africa. But it certainly is the first time someone has thought of turning the cables into pots. Mogiba was arrested on the spot but granted bail shortly after. She appeared in court several times before being sentenced on the 21st of October 2024.
A week later, she was convicted, and her case was postponed for sentencing to 21st of November. The Calcutta Regional Court found her guilty of possession of stolen property and left her with two choices. She can either settle a fine of R 10 000 or take her chances with a suspended imprisonment of five years.
The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Gerber, was very pleased with the investigating team. “South Africans are all too familiar with the daily theft of copper cables and other items from infrastructure meant to and contribute to the smooth running of the country.” – Major Gerber.
Copper theft is an increasing threat in South Africa driven by poverty and desperation to name a few factors. Maybe it was poverty and desperation that drove Mogiba to such measures, one can never be certain. One thing that is certain is the fact that criminals are exploring more and more “creative” ways to outsmart authorities. Where there is a will, there is a way.
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