EASTERN CAPE – The East London based Serious Organised Crime Investigation of the Hawks in a joint operation with Combined Private Investigation Security, East London Visible Police members arrested Thamsanqa Cetyiwe (33) on 06 February 2023 for allegations of theft, causing damage to essential infrastructure and possession of suspected stolen property (motor vehicle).

It is alleged that on 06 February 2023 at about 15:00, five male suspects forced open the Telkom cell phone tower at Bongweni area next to East London airport and removed a battery from the tower. The Combined Private Investigation Security Company was patrolling the area when the incident took place and alerted the Hawks about the incident. Four suspects fled into the nearby bushes while one suspect, who was the driver of a VW Polo, was arrested.

Upon searching the vehicle, the Telkom cellphone tower battery worth R25 000, was found in the boot of the vehicle as well as grinders and other tools believed to have been used in the commission of crime. A preliminary investigation conducted revealed that the getaway car was reported to have been stolen in Woodstock in Cape Town in October 2022.

Cetyiwe made a short appearance in East London Magistrate’s court on Tuesday, 07 February 2023 and was remanded in custody until 27 February as further investigations are in progress. More arrests are imminent.

Source: South African Police Service