The ransacking and burglary at the Umjindi ANC parliamentary constituency offices has left local political leaders fuming.
But the arrest of a suspect has allayed all fears that the robbers intended to sabotage the party’s campaigning activities for the national elections on May 7.
Both Umjindi ANC secretary, Sifiso April and media convener, Bhekizwe Nkambule, were shocked to find the office doors open on Saturday February 1, documents taken and a computer stolen.
Sadek Abraham (27) was taken into custody on Wednesday February 19. His non-affiliation to any political party put fears to rest regarding thoughts of sabotage.
Abraham confessed to the Barberton police that he was guilty of the said crime. Initially, Abraham was not apprehended for it, but rather for a housebreaking in the Cathyville area.
Barberton Times had learnt that after a lengthy interrogation, he also confessed that among the string of burglaries he had committed include that of the ANC offices.
According to Nkambule, the computer that was stolen contained classified information. “The ANC will not be controlled by criminals who come and steal its property. We will use all sorts of law-enforcement agencies to get to the bottom of this matter. We have and will continue to fight our enemies who think they weaken the ANC by stealing information which is of a sensitive nature,” said Nkambule.
He declined to reveal what the information was about. But two independent sources at the building, who spoke to Barberton Times, said the computer contained files about the daily running of the party and membership-application information among other.
Police spokesman, Const Tutu Nkosi, confirmed the incident. She said Abraham was arrested for two crimes of business robberies and another two for housebreaking.
“During an interrogation by detectives, he pointed out all the places where had committed crimes including the ANC offices. All items found in his possession were kept on exhibit,” said Nkosi.
Abraham appeared before the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Thursday February 13 and his case was postponed to Monday February 24 for bail application.
