The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi has commended the joint efforts by members of the South African Police Service and private security companies after they successfully arrested six suspects who were allegedly stealing copper and chrome in Bethal this afternoon Wednesday, 28 August 2024 at about 14:00.
According to information received, the suspects were caught red-handed by security personnel. Prior to the suspects apprehended, it is said that they noticed the security personnel, then they fled, using a white Toyota Avanza.
The security personnel could not lose sight of the suspects’ vehicle, which took the Standerton direction.
Whilst the guards were trailing on the vehicle driven by the suspects, a backup was also summoned whereby members of the Police as well as other security personnel from Standerton came on board.
The vehicle was intercepted, and it was during this time when the six suspects were cornered. During their arrest, some of the stolen properties was recovered.
Further investigation will be conducted to ascertain if there were no other stolen properties concealed somewhere and to verify the status of the vehicle used in the commission of crime.
Meanwhile the Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi welcomed the partnership displayed by different law enforcement agencies. “Working together always produces positive results. Make no mistake, our partnership with other law enforcement agencies is really working in our favour in terms of reducing the levels of crime. This arrest should serve as an indication to criminals out there, that we will never tolerate criminality in this province” added the General.
