Examining the significance of modus operandi information in copper theft investigation

Abstract

This study sought to examine the significance of modus operandi information in the investigation of copper theft. Data was collected by means of a literature study and individual semi-structured interviews conducted with detectives at the SAPS Philippi East, in the Nyanga policing cluster, in the Western Cape, to promote knowledge and understanding of the significance of modus operandi information in copper theft investigations. A comprehensive literature study, concerning the dynamics of modus operandi information in forensic investigation and copper theft in South Africa, was conducted. From the results of this research, it appears that participants do realize the significance of modus operandi information in the investigation of copper theft. It is, however, evident that they do not optimally utilize modus operandi information regarding copper thieves as a result of limited experience, case docket overload, and the inaccessibility of available data – all of which inhibit the establishment of modus operandi information pertaining to copper thieves. Role-players in the copper theft investigation sphere isolate themselves from each other and do not share the available modus operandi information amongst each other; these results in a non-systematic integrated approach to copper theft investigation. The study identifies the challenges and shortcomings, experienced by detectives at SAPS Philippi East, which inhibit the optimal utilization of modus operandi information in the investigation of copper theft. The study then puts forward a set of recommendations that could assist the SAPS, the relevant parastatals and other role-players in enhancing the utilization of such information.