EDEN CLUSTER – The vigilance of police deployed in crime hotspot areas ensured that three suspects are behind bars after stolen property valued at more than R90 000 were recovered during various operations, in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay respectively, on Friday, 20 May 2022. These suspects are scheduled to appear in court on Monday, 23 May 2022.

On Friday evening, at about 21:50, Plettenberg Bay sector manager and his team of community volunteers conducted patrols on the R340 near Wittedrift, Plettenberg Bay when they spotted a Ford Bantam bakkie. While approaching the vehicle they noticed a passenger disembarked and disappeared into the bushes under suspicious circumstances. They immediately proceeded with a search of the vehicle and found two Yamaha boat engines, valued at R40 000 each, concealed under a cloth. The occupants were unable to account for their possession thereof and were subsequently arrested on a charge of possession of suspected stolen property.

Further investigation into the find revealed that the boat engines were stolen at Keurbooms River in the nearby vicinity during the week.

The suspects, aged 30 and 38, are scheduled to appear in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrates’ court on Monday, 23 May 2022 on a charge of possession of stolen property.

Their accomplice is yet to be arrested.

Meanwhile, on the same night, Rural Flying Squad members deployed in Knysna swiftly responded to information and conducted a search of a house at Concordia, Knysna. The search yielded success when the members found a Gary Fisher bicycle valued at about R10 000 inside. The police subsequently arrested a 28-year-old suspect on a charge of possession of suspected stolen property.

Further investigation into the recovery of the bicycle confirmed that the bicycle was stolen during a burglary in Knysna earlier.

The suspect will make his first court appearance in the Knysna Magistrate’s court tomorrow, Monday, 23 May 2022.

All the arrested suspects remain in police custody.

Source: South African Police Service