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Scrap Yard Owner Arrested in George Municipality Cable Theft Crackdown

George Municipality has confirmed the arrest of a local scrap yard owner who was found in possession of stolen municipal infrastructure during a coordinated enforcement operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Municipal Law Enforcement on Thursday afternoon, 3 September 2026.

During a targeted raid at the scrap metal dealership, authorities discovered and seized 10,9kg of stripped copper cables, which were confirmed to be the property of George Municipality.

The arrest forms part of an intensified enforcement campaign aimed at disrupting the illegal trade in infrastructure metals and holding businesses that create a market for stolen municipal assets accountable.

George Municipality says the financial impact of cable theft and vandalism remains severe, with repairs and replacement of damaged electrical infrastructure having cost more than R10 million in ratepayer funds.

“We are sending a clear message to both the perpetrators who damage our infrastructure and the businesses that purchase stolen materials: the municipality will not tolerate the destruction of critical infrastructure. Cable theft disrupts basic service delivery, leaves residents without power, and diverts millions of rand from essential community services,” said Lee-Anne Meiring, Director of Community Safety and Mobility at George Municipality.

Executive Mayor Alderman Browen Johnson welcomed the arrest, stating: “Our infrastructure is continuously damaged by perpetrators who then sell the stolen materials to scrapyards. Just last week, I was in Borcherds and Protea Park, where we saw the direct impact of cable theft and the damage it causes in our communities.

“The message is clear: we are cracking down on everyone involved — those who steal and those who buy stolen materials, Mayor Johnson added. “Every time our infrastructure is stolen or damaged, it comes at a cost to our residents. Instead of using our resources to upgrade communities, we are forced to spend millions repairing infrastructure that has been deliberately damaged.

“I also urge our communities to remain vigilant and report theft, vandalism and suspicious activity using our new Law Enforcement WhatsApp number. Working together, we can help protect the infrastructure that our communities depend on,” Ald Johnson said.

The suspect is expected to appear in court on charges related to possession of property believed to be essential infrastructure.

Municipal Law Enforcement and SAPS will continue conducting unannounced inspections and enforcement operations at scrap metal facilities across the region.

Help Protect Our Infrastructure

George Municipality appeals to residents to report vandalism, theft or suspicious activity through the official reporting channels below:

George Municipality Safer City Call Centre:
044 801 6350
044 801 6310
044 801 6389

WhatsApp:
082 423 5082