A scholar (picture 1 & 3) was apprehended for a series of home invasions and burglaries in Waterloo – KZN during the early hours of this morning (Thursday).
The Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) Operations Centre received a call for assistance on Lily Road at approximately 02:52. Upon arrival, Reaction Officers discovered the hands of a 17-year-old male bound behind his back with rope. A replica firearm containing blank ammunition was found in his possession (picture 2).
According to community members, the teenager was attempting to break into a residence when he was apprehended. He was also positively identified as one (1) of the suspects who committed a home invasion that occurred an hour earlier on Pumpkin Road in Waterloo – KZN (picture 5).
Reaction Officers responded to the home invasion at approximately 01:56 and were informed by the family that three (3) males forced their way into their home. The suspects robbed the family of an iPhone 6 and a Samsung A12. One shot was fired and a blank round (picture 4) was located at the scene (picture 3).
During an interview with Reaction Officers, the accused confirmed that he was a member of a gang. Following the home invasion, he & his accomplices proceeded to an unoccupied residence intending to break into it. However, they fled when they noticed the approaching residents.
The gang is believed to be associated with several cases of robbery and burglary. The teenager is a student at Waterloo Secondary School in Waterloo – KZN. His accomplices are from Amaoti – KZN.
The suspect was handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) with injuries sustained from being assaulted by the community.