GARDEN ROUTE – In a significant breakthrough, the Garden Route District Crime Combatting Team has apprehended three women suspected of involvement in a spate of thefts at various chain stores across the district. The trio is slated to appear in the George Magistrates’ court on Monday, 19 February 2024.
The arrest unfolded on Thursday, 15 February 2024, when vigilant members of the Crime Combatting Team acted on an alert from a Knysna-based security company regarding a Ford Figo enroute from Knysna to George, believed to be carrying stolen goods. Positioned strategically on the N2 highway, the police intercepted the vehicle, discovering two large bags filled with merchandise, including jeans and school shoes from different chain stores. The suspects, aged 29, 30, and 40, failed to produce any receipts or explain their possession of the items, leading to the confiscation of the goods and the seizure of the vehicle. The trio currently remains in police custody.
In an unrelated development, George Detectives engaged in investigating property-related crimes conducted a successful tracing operation, resulting in the arrest of a 31-year-old man linked to multiple incidents reported over a period of time. The investigation led the police to three second-hand dealer shops where stolen items, including a compressor, bowling balls, and cash registers, were recovered. The suspect, arrested on the evening of Thursday, 15 February 2024, faces charges of housebreaking, theft, and theft from a motor vehicle. The apprehended suspect is expected to make his initial court appearance on the same day as the trio, 19 February 2024.
Additionally, a vehicle believed to have been utilized for the transportation of stolen goods was seized by the police, marking a significant step forward in curbing property-related crimes in the district.
These recent arrests underscore the commitment of the Garden Route District law enforcement in safeguarding businesses and communities against criminal activities. The collaboration between the Crime Combatting Team and George Detectives has proven instrumental in bringing these alleged offenders to justice.
