Two bodies of suspected copper cable thieves were found at an electric substation in Polokwane on Tuesday, police said.

Spokesperson Inspector Lesiba Ramoshaba said municipal officials notified the police about the two bodies at a substation in Ladanna.

"We suspect that the two males were electrocuted while trying to steal copper cable from the substation."

Ramoshaba said a saw was found near the bodies and police believe it was used by the two men to gain entrance.

It was not known when they died, Ramoshaba said.

Police urged people with missing family members to contact the Polokwane state mortuary on 015-290-6589 or the nearest police station. - Sapa