metal theft infrastructure protection

The Pioneering Movement Against Cable Theft in Cape Town

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Cape Town is fighting against metal theft using advanced technology like infrared cameras and a tollfree hotline with an incentive program for those who provide information that leads to the capture and prosecution of cable thieves. The city is also using a billboard campaign to deter potential thieves and reinforcing patrols to increase the pressure on metal thieves. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities and serve as protectors of the infrastructure in their local areas. Despite the challenges, Cape Town remains resilient and innovative in its fight against metal theft.

metal theft cape town

The Unrelenting Battle Against Metal Theft: Cape Town’s Exceptional Retrieval of Stolen Cable

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Cape Town has been fighting against metal theft, particularly the theft of street lights, with the help of a specialized team called the “Copperheads.” The team has facilitated the retrieval of over 1,700 kilograms of stolen metal, 53,000 meters of stolen cable, and made 115 arrests, including one that led to a 12year prison sentence. Despite persistent vandalism and theft, the city has been restoring and replacing stolen cables and damaged street lights at an unprecedented rate while intensifying inspections and patrols to bolster antitheft measures. The public has been urged to participate in the fight against metal theft by reaching out to the city’s 24hour tollfree tipoffs line.

metal theft law enforcement

‘The Copperheads’ Impressive Feat: Recovering 53 Kilometres of Pilfered Cable

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The Copperheads, a law enforcement unit, recovered an impressive 53 kilometres of stolen cable between July and December. They conducted 404 autonomous operations, 1,260 scrapyard inspections, and 1,777 hotspot patrols, answering 277 grievances from citizens. The rise in arrests and seizures highlights the severity of the problems related to cable and metal theft, and the Copperheads are continuing their crusade to recover stolen goods and bring those responsible to justice. Their success is a testament to their resilience and commitment in the persistent battle against cable theft.

energy safety team infrastructure

Cape Town Launches Energy Safety Team to Protect Electricity Infrastructure

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The City of Cape Town has recently launched its Energy Safety Team on May 24, 2023, to safeguard its electricity infrastructure. The initiative, led by Councillor Beverley van Reenen and Alderman JP Smith, aims to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to focus on the protection of the City’s electricity infrastructure in the metro.