By Buziwe Nocuze
Highway Patrol officers on duty on the M1 were stopped by a government ambulance crew who informed them about a Ford Figo being driven recklessly between Worcester and Paarl.
The officers located the car, which had three occupants, and after searching it, they discovered clothes, stationery, toiletries, and items with tags from various stores. The total value of the goods was about R25,000.
Western Cape SAPS spokesperson, Captain Frederick van Wyk, said the suspects couldn’t explain where they obtained the items or provide proof of payment.
“After further investigation, it was discovered that the passengers were known for shoplifting due to previous records,” said Van Wyk.
“The three suspects, aged between 29 and 41, were arrested and detained at Paarl SAPS for possession of possibly stolen goods.”
Local resident Ongezwa Matu wasn’t surprised that the suspects had a history of shoplifting.
“There are people who have never worked who engage in shoplifting. They operate around the Western Cape. I am glad they were arrested because stealing is a crime,” said Ongezwa.
Another resident, who didn’t want to be named, questioned why these known thieves were released after earlier arrests.
“The criminals have more rights than the victims of these shoplifters. They are known for shoplifting due to previous records with a history of theft across the district. Why are they given bail over and over again?” asked the resident.
Pictured above: Shoplifters were arrested by the Highway Patrol Unit; they had suspected stolen clothing worth R25,000 in Paarl.
Source: Supplied
