Katutura copper wire theft suspects granted bail

Two suspects, a man and a woman, who were arrested in Katutura on Wednesday for possessing large quantities of copper wire, have been granted bail.

The suspects, Joseph Daniel (36) and Kulaano Kapalingo (44), were arrested near the intersection of Hereford and Ekundi streets in Katutura at approximately 22h15 during a routine patrol conducted by the Windhoek City Police Service.

City police spokesperson Marcelline Murapo says the suspects were arrested on suspicion of possessing suspected stolen property, as well as vandalising state property.

“During the patrol, the [police] members intercepted the suspects, after which they searched their vehicle and subsequently discovered a large quantity of copper wire in their possession. It is suspected to have been stolen,” she says.

She says the suspects appeared in the Katutura Magistrate’s Court on Friday and were granted bail of N$3 000 each, as they did not plead guilty.

The case has been postponed to 22 May.

The police say they continue to treat copper wire theft with the seriousness it deserves, as such acts often result in damage to critical infrastructure and disruptions to essential services that affect the wider community.

The police warn individuals involved in the theft, purchase, or distribution of copper wire and other suspected stolen goods that such activities will not be tolerated and offenders will face the full consequences of the law.

The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities relating to the sale, purchase, or transportation of suspected stolen property.

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