LAW enforcement officers apprehended three suspects pretending to be City officials in Walmer Estate, Woodstock, after following up on information from a community group.
Earlier on Saturday, the suspects gained access to a property in Camps Bay after they flashed fake credentials. They were let into the home and stole various items such as a laptop, cell phone and a wallet.
The City said a case of robbery was opened at Camps Bay police station.
The suspects were caught a while later trying the same scam in Walmer Estate.
“Law Enforcement officers were informed by the community group while busy with patrols in Woodstock and reacted immediately, tracing the suspects and apprehending them.
“The suspects were taken to Camps Bay where they were detained. The vehicle used in crimes was confiscated and impounded at SAPS Bellville,” the City said.
Further investigation showed that the suspects are linked to other incidents in Kuils River, Manenberg and Walmer Estate.
In other successes in the past week, Law Enforcement officers arrested 239 suspects and issued 8 039 notices for various transgressions.
The City’s Traffic Service issued 58 883 notices, impounded 319 public transport vehicles and executed 1 091 warrants of arrest.
They also made 39 arrests, of which 16 were for driving under the influence, nine for reckless and negligent driving and 14 for other transgressions, such as a stolen vehicle, submitting false documentation, and assaulting an officer
The Metro Police Department made 87 arrests, including 29 for drunk driving and 37 for the illegal possession of drugs.
“The week-on week enforcement patrols and the successful arrests show that our officers react swiftly and follow up on information from the community. The past week saw 365 arrests, including that of three suspects who pretended to be City officials to gain access to properties. Building strong relationships with communities is crucial in the fight against crime.
“We will continue to invest in technology that bridges the gap between our officials and the public, enhancing response times. One example is the Neighbourhood Watch app, which we are rolling out across the City. These initiatives will contribute to safer communities and help remove criminals from the streets,” said Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.
The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 877 incidents over the weekend, including 91 assault related cases.
Cape Times