DURBAN – In an effort to turn the tide against crime, police have been engaging closely with the community in the Welbedacht West area after the recent robberies that had occurred in that neighborhood.

This partnership and vigilance by the community have assisted police in the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect. On 17 June 2021, police received intelligence concerning the whereabouts of an armed robbery suspect. This information was cascaded to the Chatsworth Police Task team who immediately acted on the information resulting in the arrest of the suspect.

It is alleged that on 10 June 2021, at 20:50, a robbery occurred on Progress Road in Welbedacht West where armed suspects robbed a tuck-shop owner of his belongings. The suspects stole cash, tablets and other belongings before they fled the scene. A detective attached to the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit was assigned to investigate this case.

Following the arrest, the suspect has been linked to other robberies committed in the area. Two of the cellphones that were taken in an armed robbery case at a local school have been seized. It is alleged that on 3 June 2021, at 12:15, two unknown men entered a school and demanded cellphones from one of the teachers who was busy teaching pupils. The suspects stole the cellphones and fled the scene. Police operations are still ongoing to ensure that the community remains safe.

The accused is appearing at the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 21 June 2021.

Source: South African Police Service