The success of crime reduction initiatives stems from genuine partnerships formed between police, businesses and the community and when they collaborate, incredible results are achieved.
On Thursday, 27 July 2023 at about 12:15, SAPS Madeira received information that five suspicious males were seen entering a clothing store at Northcrest Taxi Rank. The Vispol Commander immediately activated the crime prevention members. Upon entering the store, the members spotted a group of males who were about to exit. They were ordered to lie down and on searching the suspect at the door, a 9mm pistol was found in his possession. The other suspects moved towards the back of the store and were apprehended. Two were in possession of firearms (a .38 revolver was thrown inside in a cardboard box and a CZ 70 pistol was found in a shoe boot). The stolen money was found in a black back pack on one of the suspect’s.
The suspects aged between 23-40 years old were detained on charges of business robbery, illegal possession of firearms and illegal possession of ammunition. One firearm was reported stolen in Chatsworth in March 2020 while ownership of the other two firearms is yet to be established.
The suspects are expected to appear in Mthatha magistrate court soon.
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Maj Gen Pumzile Cetyana commended the swift reaction of the members as well as community. “This collaborative effort showcases the power of unity and cooperation in creating safer neighbourhoods. This joint effort also impacts positively in the reduction of crime and proves that by working together, we can achieve remarkable results in curbing crime,” commented Maj Gen Cetyana.