Arrests in Stellenbosch and Strand
An alleged copper thief and an alleged burglar were nabbed in the Strand and Stellenbosch recently, in two unrelated incidents.
A Fidelity ADT armed response officer was doing a routine patrol in Strand last week Thursday (20 September 2018) when he spotted suspicious activity in Fagan Street. His suspicions were confirmed when he noticed the individual growing anxious as the officer approached him.
“The suspect’s demeanour caused the officer to stop and talk him. Upon inspection, the suspect was found to be in possession of copper pipes, which had reportedly been stolen in the area,” says Verena Hulme Fidelity ADT’s district manager (Cape Town North).
The officer apprehended the individual and alerted the SAPS, who then took him to the area’s local police station.
In the second incident (on Sunday 23rd September), an officer from Stellenbosch Watch was dispatched to Donkerhoek Farm’s New Apostolic Church (in the Simondium district of Stellenbosch), to investigate an alarm signal. The officer arrived at the scene and started patrolling the vicinity for anything unusual. Stellenbosch Watch is supported by Fidelity ADT.
According to Hulme, the officer noticed something suspicious on the roof of the building and went closer for further inspection. The officer found an individual on the roof, allegedly attempting to break-in and steal from the church.
“The suspect was trying to gain access by drilling a hole through the roof. Our officer managed to apprehend the individual and notified the police. The suspect was arrested and taken to Groot Drakenstein Police Station,” says Hulme.
“Well done to both our officers for their keen observation skills and timely responses. Residents are encouraged to ensure their homes are locked and secured by activating their homes alarms system – even if they’re only stepping out for 5 minutes. Remain vigilant and remember to report any suspicious activity,” advises Hulme.