PINETOWN SAPS has welcomed the arrest of a suspect in the Westmead area, where a significant quantity of suspected marijuana was recovered during routine patrols conducted by private security roleplayers on Monday night.

Marshall Security spokesperson Tyron Powell said the Greater Westmead Association and Marshall Security armed response officers were conducting routine patrols at the corner of Henry Pennington Road and Swanfield Roads in Westmead when they observed a male carrying multiple plastic bags displaying suspicious behaviour.

Trusting instincts, Powell said the officers stopped and searched the individual.

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“Upon inspection, the male was found to be in possession of three bags of marijuana, later valued at approximately R30 000. During questioning, the suspect provided contradictory explanations, alleging that the marijuana had been stolen and was intending to sell the stolen loot.

“The suspect was immediately apprehended on scene. The confiscated marijuana and the suspect were handed over to Metro Police and they took over further processing and investigation of the case,” said Powell.

He added that this incident reflects the Greater Westmead Association and Marshall Security’s ongoing commitment to proactive patrols, addressing criminal activity, protecting businesses, and supporting law enforcement partners in holding offenders accountable.

Pinetown SAPS communications officer Jennifer Naidu said this arrest highlights the importance of collaboration between the SAPS, registered security companies, and the community.

“The police cannot combat crime alone, and proactive patrols by security companies, supported by vigilant communities, play a critical role in preventing and disrupting criminal activity. The suspect and the recovered drugs were handed over to Pinetown SAPS for further investigation and processing,” said Naidu.