Three minors have been arrested after an alleged smash-and-grab in Cape Town, adding to a growing number of arrests linked to attacks on motorists across the city.
According to the Cape Argus, the latest incident happened on Saturday at the intersection of Borchard’s Quarry Road and Bahrain Drive. Metro Police were alerted at around 1.40pm and spotted three suspects running in different directions.
Three minors arrested
Officers managed to catch all three suspects. Authorities later confirmed that they were minors. One of them was allegedly found in possession of the motorist’s stolen cellphone.
The three were handed over to Bishop Lavis SAPS and the Department of Social Development was notified.
The City said they are expected to face charges including theft out of a motor vehicle, malicious damage to property and possession of stolen property.
Their arrests bring the number of suspected smash-and-grab offenders arrested in Cape Town over the past five weeks to at least 11.
More than 200 incidents detected
The City has recorded 246 smash-and-grab incidents through its CCTV network during the 2025/26 financial year. Officials believe the actual number may be higher because some incidents are not reported.
Several roads remain key concern areas.
Jakes Gerwel Drive between the N2 and Bofors Circle has been identified as a hotspot. Reports have also been received from Epping Avenue and Jan van Riebeeck Drive in and around Elsies River.
City increases security measures
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said the City has increased its freeway management efforts, including deploying more personnel and using drones to support its camera network and officers on the ground.
Smith said the measures had resulted in fewer criminal incidents, but random and opportunistic crimes remain a challenge.
The City said 33 drone operations have been carried out on the N2 so far this year as authorities continue efforts to tackle crime affecting motorists.
The latest arrests come as officials continue to monitor known smash-and-grab hotspots across Cape Town.
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