Sound equipment stolen while artists asleep

Music equipment, albums and singles due to be released in this month were stolen from the Jika Boys, a local hip-hop and house music group, on 5 August while they were sleeping at their temporary residence in Glen Austin.

The group suspects that entry was gained through the kitchen window.

Group members, Wizibeats, Leon Lee, Jaycee Rapaddict and King Skilla Heezus, claimed that Midrand police officers took statements, but didn’t return to the residence to take fingerprints.

Rapaddict explained that none of the members heard anything during the robbery, but when they woke up in the morning, they found the TV, studio equipment and an Apple laptop missing.

He stated, “At least whoever did this did not steal our speakers, those are very expensive. They also left the microphone but stole everything we use to record our music. Everything was valued at just over R30 000.

“Whoever did this did not steal our skill and we won’t give up. We will redo the beats and as soon as we get back to the studio, we will redo the songs.” He also alleged that the security guard was not around that night.

“Police said a team… will come and take fingerprints, but a week later no one [has come]. Fingerprints are important in catching whoever stole our equipment.”

Co-owner of the property, Emmanuel Matsane said, “Jika Boys invited a lot of friends over… the people who stole from them are probably people they knew.” He added that the property is being developed and there is a security guard on patrol.

Spokesperson for Midrand Police Station, Constable Matome Tlamela confirmed that a case of robbery was opened but contradicted Rapaddict’s allegation. “There is a reference number for fingerprints on our side for fingerprints taken,” said Tlamela.

The case continues.