Cape Town - This is the shocking image cops want all criminals who steal copper to see.
The suspected thief allegedly tried to steal copper cables from a substation in Rocklands, Mitchells Plain, but was fried for his efforts.
Now, Mogamat Faeez Adams, 26, is being charged with perjury because police say he lied to them about how he got his injuries.
According to Mitchells Plain Police spokesperson Lieutenant Ian Williams, about a month ago, Adams told his family that he was petrol-bombed by gangsters in Lucannon Drive.
But upon further investigation, police discovered Adams had lied, and that he got his horrific injuries while breaking into a substation.
He was electrocuted and half of his skin was burnt off his face, chest, hands and arms, but he managed to run home, where he told his family he was attacked by thugs.
His mother reported this to Mitchells Plain police, who opened a case of attempted murder.
Williams explains: “On Saturday, March 3, at 3:30pm, Mitchells Plain police registered a case of attempted murder after the complainant, a 26-year-old male from Rocklands, reported he was walking across the Rocklands Sports field when he was approached by four unknown males.
“The men asked him if he belonged to a certain gang. When the complainant answered that he was not a gang member, one of the suspects lit a petrol bomb and threw it against his chest.”
But police discovered Adams was lying after medical reports revealed that his injuries were caused by electricity and not petrol.
The substation he allegedly tried to break into was also left damaged, and cops found the broken lock and a shift spanner on the scene.
Williams says Adams will be charged with perjury only, and not theft, as “he has suffered enough”.
Adams may have to spend the next two years in hospital to be treated for his injuries.
“Perjury is regarded as a serious offence and persons who make false cases will be criminally charged and arrested,” adds Williams.
Major General Greg Goss also warned people not to steal copper, or electricity, as it could result in a loss of life.
“It is dangerous,” he says.
Daily Voice