Big Copper Bust in Johannesburg
The South African Police Service (SAPS) teamed up with other agencies to stop a major smuggling ring. They seized copper worth more than R12 million at the City Deep logistics hub in Johannesburg.
How the Operation Started
Police got a tip from Zambian authorities about three trucks that had been hijacked while carrying copper blocks. The trucks were using fake Tanzanian licence plates to hide their true origin.
What the Investigators Found
- The trucks entered South Africa through the Beitbridge border post on 10 June, using forged customs papers.
- One of the trucks was later recovered in Zambia and was shown to bear the plates of a South African logistics company.
- On 18 June 2026, a joint team raided City Deep and seized 26 bundles of copper plates weighing about 121 tonnes.
- The copper’s original serial numbers had been filed off to make it harder to trace.
- The estimated street value of the seized copper is R12,680,000.
Who Was Involved
The operation brought together:
- Gauteng Crime Intelligence
- Interpol
- Border Police
- City Deep security staff
- Private security partners
What Happens Next
No arrests have been made yet. Investigators are following all leads to identify and arrest the people behind the smuggling syndicate. The case remains open, and more details are expected as the investigation continues.
Conclusion
This bust shows how cooperation between local and international law‑enforcement can disrupt organized crime. By acting on intelligence and checking documents carefully, SAPS and its partners stopped a large amount of stolen copper from reaching the market. The effort sends a clear message that smuggling operations will be pursued and dismantled.
