Cable theft costs South Africa about five-billion rand a year, and the "war on cable theft" is being intensified. This is the word from Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa. In written reply to a parliamentary question, he said training for designated "second-hand goods" police officers was currently underway. The minister’s spokesman, Zweli Mnisi told Radio Islam that they regard it as a serious crime as it has an impact on the economy and affects all centres. Mnisi said they will be training more officers and move for harsher sentences. He added that this year they are going to have police officers specifically to deal with cable theft. He confirmed that there has also been a number of arrests. He said in the past those found guilty of cable theft were sentenced for 12 months, but now it’s a maximum of 10 years. He added this will send a message and build confidence.