Police sources say they’ve lifted the lid on a massive syndicate after R1.2 million worth of compressed copper blocks was found on a farm in Philippi.
Police say the busts were made at two locations in Schaapkraal, one of them allegedly on the property of a high-ranking police officer.
Two men have been arrested, but police now believe they’ve uncovered a syndicate and says more arrests are imminent.
“This case might then be handed over to the Hawks and the copper is 10 blocks worth R1.2 million, this is still part of a massive investigation,” a police source told Daily Voice.
“During the investigation, officers were led to the house of a high-ranking police official in Philippi where stolen compressed copper blocks were found.”
CONFISCATED: Ten tons of compressed copper blocks found at ‘cop’s house’ in Philippi
The drama started on Saturday night when SAPS and Law Enforcement officers were called out to Vlei Road where members of the Schaapkraal Neighbourhood Watch spotted a suspicious stationary bakkie and trailer.
Cops found two tons of compressed copper worth
R240 000 on the vehicle.
Two men at the scene, aged 22 and 29, were arrested and charged with the possession of suspected stolen property.
Cops are investigating whether the bakkie was hijacked or stolen.
The duo made their first appearance at the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court this week.
The police source says on Monday, the unit made a second bust in Philippi where eight tons of compressed copper blocks were allegedly found at the cop’s house.
Hawks spokesman Captain Philani Nkwalase
On Tuesday, police spokesperson, Mihalali Majikela, confirmed the first bust, but did not want to comment on the second incident, saying: “The investigation is still underway and we cannot divulge more information on the incidents.”
Hawks spokesman Captain Philani Nkwalase said the matter is currently being dealt with by the police’s Flash Firearms Liquor Unit, but added that the case could be handed over to the Hawks at a later stage as more information emerged.