In order to prevent and combat crime, it is critically important that there is an effective collaboration between the SAPS and private security companies. Such partnership will ultimately result in addressing and combating crime in the neighbourhoods.
It is alleged that on Wednesday 12 February 2020, at approximately 03:15, two suspects stopped at a filling station in Govan Mbeki Avenue, Central and filled two 25 litre containers with diesel, without paying. As the suspects drove off with the truck a local security company stopped to inflate the tyres of his vehicle.
The petrol attendant informed him that the truck that is driving away drove off without paying for the diesel. The guard proceeded to chase after the vehicle. The vehicle turned into Albany Road and on the corners of Mackay and Albany street the truck stopped and two suspects jumped out and fled on foot.
The security guard stopped and ran after them. One suspect allegedly turned around and fired a shot at the guard, who then returned fire. The suspects fled into the North End area. The 10111 call centre was alerted to the theft and various units responded and the area was searched for the suspects.
At approximately 04:30 they found a suspect with a gunshot wound to the arm hiding in Elizabeth Lane, North End. The suspect aged 23 was arrested and taken to hospital to be treated.
During the investigation and the following up of information Humewood detectives established that the 1 ton truck was stolen at a construction business in Newton Park during a housebreaking on Tuesday 11 February 2020 evening. The suspect will be charged with theft of diesel, attempted murder and possession of suspected stolen motor vehicle.
The suspect will appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate court during the week and further charges may be included as the investigation unfolds.
Mount Road Cluster Commander, Maj Gen Thembisile Patekile commended the swift reaction of the security company which resulted in the arrest and recovery of the motor vehicle (truck). ‘Private security companies are an integral part of society and are one of our key stakeholders in the process of crime prevention. Enhanced co-operation between the SAPS and security companies will ensure that our communities are and feel safe,’ added Maj Gen Patekile.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
