Hawks bust multi-million rand cable theft syndicate

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A multi-million rand syndicate of cable thieves‚ masquerading as maintenance workers‚ has been bust by the Hawks.

The syndicate‚ consisting of six men‚ appeared in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court last week. According to a statement issued by the Hawks on Wednesday they are facing charges of racketeering and money laundering. They could face hefty sentences if they are found guilty under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.

Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha said two of the men were arrested by vigilant police while they were trying to steal copper from power lines in Prins Albert in 2012.

He said the rest of the men were already in prison when the Hawks established that they were part of a national syndicate thought to have stolen copper worth R3.5-million.

More at: http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2017/04/12/Hawks-bust-multi-million-rand-cable-theft-syndicate