Between 02:00 and 12:00 on Friday, 28 January 2022, five men between the ages of 25 and 38 respectively were arrested by Van Zylsrus SAPS for tampering and damage to essential infrastructure and theft.

According to reports the Station Commander of Van Zylsrus, Lt Col Du Plessis and members under his command reacted quickly to a complaint of a Toyota bakkie that was allegedly driving around at the farms.

Members noticed the vehicle as per the description. When the suspects noticed the police, the three male suspects ran into the veld.

Upon searching the bakkie, the police discovered 24 cellphones tower batteries, a generator battery and 20 litres of diesel in the vehicle.

The driver was arrested after failing to give proof of ownership of the items.  Later the members found an abandoned Toyota Etios along the road and searched it. House breaking implements were found inside the vehicle.

With the assistance of farmers in the Van Zylsrus district, all three suspects were arrested while hiding in the bush.

Two vehicles were confiscated together with all stolen items.  All suspects will appear in the Kuruman Magistrates’ Court soon.

The Acting District Commander of JTG, Brigadier Johnny Besnaar commended Lt Col Du Plessis and his members for their swift response to the complaint, which resulted in the arrest and confiscation of the suspected stolen property.  He also commended the farming community for their participation and assistance which led to the apprehension of the suspects.

Source: South African Police Service