The joint operation conducted by Detectives from SAPS Dorset in collaboration with Community Policing Forum, Rural Safety as well as Security Services yielded positive results as one suspect, believed to be part of a syndicate responsible for stealing solar panels and other items, was arrested on Wednesday, 12 April 2023 at about 23:00, in Dorset outside Lephalale.
The operation was activated following a positive tip-off about the location of the stolen items which were allegedly stolen from the Lodges in this area.
The team then pounced on the two suspects at an informal settlement where one managed to evade arrest by fleeing the scene on foot.
A search was conducted at different shacks and three stolen solar panels and one water pump were seized. Further investigation was conducted and additional two solar panels were recovered hidden on the roof top of a shack in Vaalwater policing area, bringing the total number of solar panels to five.
The total value of the recovered items is estimated at R40.000.00
The Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has commended the team for the well-coordinated operation that led to the arrest of the suspects and the subsequent recovery of the stolen items. The General further urged community members to continue supporting the police in the fight against crime.
The 37-year-old foreign national suspect is expected to appear before the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 14 April 2023 facing charges of possession of suspected stolen property.
A police manhunt for the remaining suspects continues. Anyone with information should contact the Branch Commander Warrant Officer Charlotte Thuketana on 082 414 6658 or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or send information through the MySAPS App.
