Trio purporting to be law enforcement officials arrested for theft

Law enforcement officers arrested three suspects for theft on Saturday after they pretended to be City officials in Walmer Estate, Woodstock to gain access to properties.

The MMC for Safety & Security, JP Smith said that the trio gained access to a property in Camps Bay after they flashed fake credentials and were let into the home where they stole various items such as a laptop, cell phone and a wallet. A case of robbery was opened at Camps Bay SAPS.

He added that the suspects were caught a while later trying the same scam in Walmer Estate. Law Enforcement officers were informed by the community group while busy with patrols in Woodstock and reacted immediately, tracing the suspects and apprehending them.

The suspects were taken to Camps Bay where they were detained. Smith added that the vehicle used in crimes was confiscated and impounded at SAPS Bellville.

According to the MMC, the suspects are linked to other incidents in Kuils River, Manenberg and Walmer Estate.

‘’The week-on week enforcement patrols and the successful arrests show that our officers react swiftly and follow up on information from the community. The past week saw 365 arrests, including the that of three suspects who pretended to be City officials to gain access to properties. Building strong relationships with communities is crucial in the fight against crime,’’ said JP Smith, Mayco Member for Safety & Security.

‘’We will continue to invest in technology that bridges the gap between our officials and the public, enhancing response times. One example is the Neighbourhood Watch app, which we are rolling out across the City. These initiatives will contribute to safer communities and help remove criminals from the streets,’’ he added.

 

Done by: Bush Radio News reporter