WESTERN CAPE – Vigilance of police to curb property related crimes landed three suspects in the dock following their arrest during an intelligence driven operation on the N2 highway. The trio is expected to make their first court appearance in the Knysna today.

On Thursday, 17 February 2022, members attached to the Tsitsikamma K9 Unit, Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team, Crime Intelligence and Knysna Visible Police responded to intelligence about a Honda Ballade that was involved in a burglary at an accommodation establishment in Rheenendal the previous night. The vigilant members patrolled the highway when they spotted and pulled over the vehicle, where after they ensued with a search. The search led to the discovery and subsequent confiscation of four flat screen television sets and various electrical appliances stolen at the premises. Police arrested the driver as well as two occupants of the vehicle.

They face charges of housebreaking and theft as well as possession of stolen property.

Meanwhile, Eden Cluster Crime Combating Team members, deployed to close drug outlets in the area, embarked on focused crime combating operations at Thembalethu, George last night, 20 February 2022. They followed up information on illicit drug activities when they searched two premises at Zone 6. This search led to the confiscation of 70 Mandrax tablets, 24 bankies of Tik and 2,25 kilogram of dagga. Police subsequently arrested two suspects aged 32 and 35 on charges of possession of drugs.

One more suspect (46) was also arrested at Zone 5 during a stop and search operation after small quantity of Tik was found in his possession. He is also facing a charge of possession of drugs.

The suspects remains in police custody. They are expected to appear in the Thembalethu Magistrates’ court once charged.

These arrests and confiscations are in line with policing priorities in the Western Cape. Similar operations will be conducted under and in support of “Vuthu Hawe” operations.

Source: South African Police Service