On Friday, September 22, while SAPS Alexandria members were patrolling in Voortrekker Street, they allegedly spotted a person who was selling products, and they stopped the vehicle to investigate. The 39-year-old male, dressed in a courier company’s uniform was allegedly in possession of four sealed packages (with serial numbers) in a courier company’s bag.
According to SAPS Colonel Priscilla Naidu, “The bags contained watches (worth between R999 and R1499) and two Boss leather belts (worth R1599 and R1 999). Also found in his possession was a brand new Samsung Galaxy S23 cell phone. The suspect was taken to the police station for further questioning. While still being interviewed, the suspect’s phone rang and it was his friends looking for him”
The two SAPS members allegedly went to look for the friends and found them also in Voortrekker Street, driving a Nissan Tida. In their possession, were also four sealed courier packages containing 51 belts, 27 watches and a roll of serialized stickers from the courier company. The three males aged 29 – 41 years old were also detained on a charge on possession of suspected stolen property.
“All four suspects are from Gauteng. The estimated value of the suspected stolen property is R181 250. They appeared in the Alexandria magistrate court on Tuesday, September 26. One accused, Brian Maphanga (29) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment which was suspended for three years. The charges against the remaining three suspects were withdrawn by the court,” Naidu said.
Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, Maj Gen Zolani Xawuka commended the members for the outstanding work executed by them. ‘The successful and rapid sentencing of the accused is a shining example of the dedication and excellence exhibited by our members. It reaffirms our commitment to ensuring law and order in our communities.
Even though the other suspects were never prosecuted, they were still deprived of the suspected stolen property and that their evil intentions were stopped by the members,’ added Maj Gen Xawuka.
ISSUED BY SAPS
