According to police spokesperson Sgt Harry Manaka, the incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on December 11 after the manager at the liquor store (Sibusiso Mtshali) received information of suspect people seen on the roof of his liquor store.

Mtshali, who had been the victim of a break-in twice before, immediately alerted patrolling police officers in the area. Upon arrival police noted that forced entry had already been gained to the liquor store and they continued their search where they found a male suspect hiding in the ceiling of the building.

“A second suspect meanwhile fled the scene, but he was chased and subsequently apprehended by members of the community,” Sgt Manaka said.

A nearby resident told police he cannot just sit around his house while witnessing a crime being committed. He therefore calls on the community to take action by joining forces with the police in the fight against crime.

SAPS Duduza station commander Lt Col Bheki Mhlungu commended the police and members of the community for their assistance in the successful arrest of the suspects.

The two suspects are expected to appear in the Nigel magistrate court on December 12.