Vehicle theft on the rise in town

LYDENBURG – Three vehicles were stolen in town in the time frame of a week. SAPS spokesman, Capt Alfred Moela told the newspaper that it would seem that vehicle theft is on the increase in town and surrounding areas.

“The first car stolen was in Extension 6. It was parked at the home of the complainant on May 20. When he woke up the following morning, it was gone and presumably stolen out of his yard the previous night. The vehicle in question, a white Mazda bakkie with registration FMX 203 MP is yet to be recovered.”

Moela said in the following six days another two cars were stolen in town, one of which was in Shoprite Supermarket’s parking lot. “The vehicle, a white Nissan Navara bakkie with registration number FTZ 940 L was parked by the complainant on May 27. Upon his return, he did not manage to find it and contacted the SAPS for assistance.

“Yet another vehicle was stolen the same day in town. This time, a white Mazda Sting 323 with registration number CMF 20161 was stolen where it was parked in Maasdorp Street.”

None of the vehicles have since been recovered. The cases were referred to the vehicle identification unit in Mbombela. The investigations are pending and no arrests have been made. Moela said residents are urged to check that their vehicles are locked at all times.

“The best way to ensure that any car is indeed locked, is to manually test the handle. In all instances there was no forced entry reported.” He said the SAPS appeals to the public to come forward with any information regarding these incidents.

“Any suspicious activity should be reported to the SAPS as soon as possible. Any leads will be followed up immediately. Even if the information does not lead to any substantial arrests, we appreciate each and every input by the community.”

Moela said residents should still be on the lookout for the stolen vehicles. If seen, please contact the SAPS immediately.