Complicity in power cables theft

[NewsWhore]

Public Works Minister Freddy Perez is denouncing the robbery of power cables from the Juan Pablo Duarte Bridge over the Ozama River, as reported in Diario Libre. The robbery of power cables has become a common occurence in the DR, leaving many main thoroughfares in darkness. Journalist Marino Zapete, who became famous during the Hipolito Mejia administration for his public exposure of the construction of the former President's million dollar home in Jarabacoa, commented on the frequent theft of cables in his morning show on 88.5FM. In his opinion, the authorities have to be complicit in these robberies. On the show, there was speculation that there was possible profit to be made in new purchases of the important cables. Callers to his radio program also mentioned the possibility of complicity with power company employees, given the highly sophisticated task of removing these cables. Several called in to report empty lots where stolen cables are delivered for smelting and export of metals on a regular basis, commenting that it appeared that the police was aware of what was happening, but was being paid a fee for turning a blind eye.

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