VIDEO: WATCH CABLE THIEVES EXPOSE THEIR OPERATIONS,PARTNERS AND BOSSES AFTER A LITTLE PRAYER SESSION BY THE COMMUNITY

MARINATED CABLE THIEVES EXPOSE THEIR OPERATIONS AND BOSSES

A disturbing viral video circulating online shows two suspected cable thieves, reportedly from Lesotho, being confronted by community members. The footage depicts residents subjecting the suspects to a so-called “marination” punishment, with one of the men appearing intoxicated and unable to stand after the ordeal.

The incident reportedly took place in Olivenhoutbosch, a township near Centurion. However, this area is far from the only community suffering from cable theft. Across South Africa, infrastructure vandalism has become a persistent crisis, leaving residents without electricity and causing severe financial strain.

When cables are stolen, the impact goes beyond temporary power outages. Residents report damaged appliances caused by sudden power cuts and significant losses of refrigerated food such as meat and dairy products. For many families already facing economic hardship, these losses can be devastating.

According to claims made in the video, the suspects allegedly revealed information about those they work with. Community members believe scrap metal dealers play a central role by purchasing stolen copper cables. Frustrated residents are calling for stricter regulation — or even closure — of scrapyards accused of enabling the illegal trade.

Many argue that if thieves had nowhere to sell stolen cables, the incentive to steal them would disappear.

The video also shows one suspect so weakened after the “marination” that he repeatedly collapsed when attempting to stand or speak. Police were eventually called to the scene and took the suspects into custody for their safety and further investigation.

Community members expressed anger and distrust toward the justice system, claiming criminals no longer fear arrest because police stations are seen as places of protection rather than punishment.

Viewer discretion is advised: the footage may be disturbing to sensitive viewers.

Cable theft remains a national concern, highlighting deeper issues of poverty, crime networks, and infrastructure vulnerability. Addressing the crisis will likely require coordinated action between law enforcement, regulators, communities, and the scrap metal industry.