Former SANParks official arrested in connection with SAPS storeroom burglary in Skukuza

A 52-year-old former SANParks official was arrested yesterday, February 4, in connection with an SAPS storeroom burglary which occurred on January 23.

According to the provincial spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the storeroom of the stock theft and endangered species units in Skukuza was burgled. Several state-owned items, such as crime-scene bags and other equipment used at crime scenes, were stolen. A case was opened and an investigation led to the arrest.

Police cannot rule out the possibility of more charges added against the suspect as the investigation continues.

“It is alleged that on the day of the incident, the suspect somehow forced the storeroom container open and entered it. He allegedly helped himself to various state-owned items which members of the police unit use during investigations of poaching-related incidents, as well as some cleaning materials and sets of knives.

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“The storeroom seems to have been broken in twice by the same suspect. Members of the Stock Theft Unit became suspicious when they noticed that something was odd outside the storeroom and they began to investigate. It was during the course of the investigation that members discovered that the storeroom had been burgled and some items were stolen.

Mdhluli added that it is also alleged that the suspect tried to cover his tracks by putting some items back, however, all his attempts were fruitless as he was nabbed at the end.

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“The intention and motive behind this burglary will form part of the investigation by the police,” he said.

SANParks confirmed the arrest of its former employee and revealed that the suspect resigned from his position on Monday, February 3.