Three suspected cable thieves have been arrested and one died after a shootout with police in Mpumalanga.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said police were informed that the trio was stealing copper cables at Matla Power Station in Kriel on Wednesday.
Mohlala said on arrival at the scene, the power station guards and police searched for the alleged cable thieves.
"While they were searching, four suspects came running out of a container shooting at the police, and a shootout ensued between the suspects, police and security guards."
The alleged cable thieves managed to escape the scene.
Mohlala said they were, however, apprehended hiding inside a truck parked at the power station. One suspect was rushed to hospital and died from his injuries, Mohlala said.
Three people aged between 22 and 42 were arrested and charged with attempted murder, attempted theft and trespassing.
They are expected to appear at the Kriel Magistrate's Court on Friday.