Suspect Electrocuted While Allegedly Attempting to Steal Copper Cables Near Phoenix Highway

Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal — July 18, 2026

A suspected cable thief was critically injured after being electrocuted while allegedly attempting to steal copper cables near Phoenix Highway, according to news report.

The incident reportedly occurred during the early hours of Saturday morning when nearby residents heard a loud explosion followed by a temporary power outage affecting parts of the surrounding area. Emergency services and law enforcement officers were dispatched after multiple calls from concerned members of the public.

According to preliminary information, the suspect allegedly gained access to electrical infrastructure before coming into contact with live high-voltage equipment. The resulting electrical surge reportedly caused severe injuries and left the suspect trapped until emergency responders arrived.

Paramedics treated the injured individual at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity, and no other injuries were reported.

Technicians from the local electricity utility were called to assess the damage and restore power to affected homes and businesses. The interruption reportedly caused temporary disruptions to traffic signals and nearby commercial operations while repairs were carried out.

Police cordoned off the area as investigators examined the scene and gathered evidence. Detectives are also working to determine whether the suspect acted alone or was part of a larger cable theft syndicate operating in the region.

Copper cable theft continues to pose a significant challenge across South Africa, often resulting in costly infrastructure damage, prolonged power outages, and disruptions to essential public services. Authorities regularly warn that tampering with electrical infrastructure carries an extreme risk of serious injury or death due to the high voltages involved.

Police have urged anyone with information regarding organised cable theft or suspicious activity around electrical installations to report it through the appropriate law enforcement channels.