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Dedicated Pretoria North team nabs man believed to be behind spate of thefts
A dedicated Pretoria North police task team formed by the station commander and supported by partners has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of thefts targeting motorists, particularly at shopping centres.
The suspect is due to make his first appearance in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk, the arrest follows a string of reported incidents involving stolen laptops and other valuables from parked vehicles in public areas, particularly shopping centres.
“Over recent weeks, numerous victims have reported thefts, leading Colonel Nonzwakazi Julla, the station commander, to form a dedicated task force.
“This team includes members from the SAPS Crime Prevention Unit, the Crime Information Management and Analysis Centre (CIMAC), and the Maximum Security company, all focused on addressing the rising concerns of motor vehicle theft in the area,” said Van Dyk.
He said the situation escalated on October 4, when a victim was robbed along Barbara Street shortly after dropping off her child.
“The swift response from the police led to intensified surveillance efforts and a breakthrough came on October 6 when the task force received a tip-off about a suspicious vehicle near a petrol station in Ninapark.”
A high-speed chase ensued after the vehicle, a silver Chevrolet Spark, was located.
The pursuit concluded with the suspect being cornered and arrested.
Van Dyk said a subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a signal jammer, believed to be used to disable car alarms and facilitate thefts.
Colonel Julla commended the integrated team for its diligent work.
The suspect faces charges of theft and possession of car-breaking implements.
“This arrest serves as a stern warning to criminals that we will not leave any stone unturned in our fight against crime,” she stated.
Julla also urged motorists to remain vigilant and advised them to be cautious at traffic lights and intersections, avoid using cellphones while driving and remove any valuable items from their vehicles to deter potential thieves.
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