South African Police seize suspected stolen copper worth over US$700,000

The South African Police Service (SAPS), working with other law enforcement agencies, has dealt a significant blow to transnational organised smuggling syndicates following the seizure of suspected stolen copper worth more than R12.68 million (about US$704,000) at City Deep in Johannesburg.

A multidisciplinary team comprising Gauteng Crime Intelligence, Interpol, Border Police City Deep and private security partners conducted an intelligence-driven operation that led to the discovery and seizure of a large consignment of suspected stolen copper.

The operation followed intelligence received from Zambian authorities regarding the hijacking of three trucks transporting copper blocks.

Preliminary investigations revealed that trucks displaying false Tanzanian registration plates were allegedly used in the commission of the crime. One of the trucks was later recovered in Zambia, where investigators discovered it was displaying registration numbers belonging to a South African logistics company. The vehicle had allegedly been used to transport suspected stolen copper.

Further investigations established that two trucks carrying approximately 121 tonnes of copper slabs entered South Africa through the Beitbridge Border Post on June 10, 2026, allegedly using fraudulent customs documentation.

Acting on intelligence, the multidisciplinary team conducted a follow-up operation on June 18, 2026, at City Deep, where officers seized 26 bundles of copper with an estimated value of R12.68 million (approximately US$704,000).

Investigators also discovered that the original serial numbers on the copper had allegedly been filed off in an apparent attempt to conceal its origin.

No arrests have been made so far, and investigations remain ongoing. Police say they are pursuing all available leads to identify and apprehend those responsible for the suspected smuggling operation.