Not only is this extremely dangerous but it is also costing the municipality millions of rands – Sello Matsie

substation earlier in the morning.

Sol Plaatje Municipal spokesman, Sello Matsie, said copper theft had become an almost daily occurrence in Kimberley, with up to three incidents a week causing massive damage.

“Not only is this extremely dangerous but it is also costing the municipality millions of rands. Last month an incident of theft caused extensive damage to appliances in Ward 19, with the municipality receiving claims in excess of R500 000, as TVs, fridges and stoves were damaged during a surge.

“When the substation in Hull Street exploded, also as a result of copper theft, the damage was in excess of R15 million. The damage caused here today will amount to more than R200 000. Meanwhile the thieves only get a few rand for the copper,” Matsie said.

He added that the theft of copper from the substation opposite the Star of the West, on Tuesday, was the reason why the 103-year-old tram was now indefinitely out of order.

“Copper thieves stole parts that are crucial to the operation of the tram. That technology is irreplaceable and similar parts would be impossible to obtain. The tram is one of our biggest tourist attractions and the greed of a single person is now preventing others from experiencing that part of Kimberley’s history,” Matsie said.

He urged scrap metal dealers to be on the look-out for copper thieves and inform the police if they notice anything suspicious.

Police spokesman, Lieutenant Olebogeng Tawana, yesterday confirmed that the man, apparently in his thirties, was found after being killed in the substation.

“It is suspected that the deceased was electrocuted yesterday morning between 9.30am and 10am. He was wearing a black T-shirt, blue Nike training shoes and blue overall pants,” Tawana said.

He requested anyone with information regarding the man’s identity to contact Detective Sergeant Johannes Bosman on 073 286 0942 or 053 807 5500.