Online Reporter
H-Metro Reporter
IN a daring midnight operation, a team of vigilant neighbourhood watch security guards in Hatfield foiled a copper cable theft, apprehending a 29-year-old man in the process.
He claimed he had been promised US$25 for the cables and he wanted to use US$20 for rent and US$5 to pay his child’s fees.
The drama unfolded along St Andrews Road in the early hours of Sunday morning at about 2am.
Alert guards, patrolling the area, spotted Erick Matuzhayi lurking in the shadows of St Andrews Close.
The suspicious individual was seen carrying a large sack filled with TelOne insulated copper cables, sparking immediate alarm among the guards.
As the guards closed in, Matuzhayi panicked and attempted to flee the scene.
However, his escape bid was short-lived, as the guards gave chase and, after a fierce struggle, the guards eventually managed to subdue the suspect, pinning him to the ground until reinforcements arrived.
The neighbourhood watch team quickly alerted nearby residents, who flocked to the scene to witness the dramatic apprehension.
In a stunning audio recording captured by the neighbourhood watch guards, Matuzhayi made a startling confession, revealing details of his ill-fated copper cable theft.
According to the audio recording, Matuzhayi claimed that he was recruited by a man known as “Baba vaNyasha”, who promised him US$25 in exchange for stealing the copper cables.
“Baba vaNyasha asked me to look for these copper cables, and in return, he would give me US$25,” Matuzhayi said.
“I was supposed to use US$20 to pay my rent in Epworth, and the remaining US$5 would go towards my child’s school fees.”
The suspect was subsequently whisked away to Hatfield police station, marking the latest success in a series of theft busts in the area.
In recent weeks, several thieves have been caught and brought to justice, with some already convicted and others awaiting trial.
The neighbourhood watch programme has been instrumental in these success stories, demonstrating the power of community-led initiatives in combating crime.
As the investigation continues, residents are breathing a sigh of relief, grateful for the swift action of the neighbourhood watch guards.
The incident serves as a testament to the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in keeping neighbourhoods safe and secure.
