A shocking act of theft unfolded in Umhlanga when two men were caught on camera stealing a copper water pipe from a building in broad daylight.
Eyewitnesses film two men stealing copper water pipe in Umhlanga
Eyewitnesses filmed the incident as the suspects used tools to loosen and remove the pipe, triggering a forceful gush of water from the damaged system.
Despite being aware that they were being recorded, the suspects showed no hesitation.
One of the men, dressed in black pants and a blue golf shirt, and his accomplice, clad in all black, made eye contact with bystanders before fleeing the scene.
As they ran, crowds screamed for help, but the men managed to escape before authorities arrived.
We reached out to Umhlanga authorities for an update on whether the suspects had been identified or arrested, but no response was received by the time this article was published.
It remains unclear if a case has been officially opened with the police.
Copper theft has become a growing concern in South Africa, with criminals targeting copper water pipes, electrical cables, and other valuable infrastructure.
The rising demand for scrap metal has driven up copper prices, making these thefts increasingly common.
The theft of copper is often linked to scrap metal prices, which fluctuate based on demand.
In South Africa, scrap copper prices range from R12.32 to R57.29 per kilogram, depending on the type of copper. Over the years, the price has surged, making copper theft a lucrative crime despite the legal consequences.