Notorious burglar caught after targeting downtown Ballito

In a joint operation between police and local security agencies, a wanted criminal was caught in Shakaskraal yesterday morning (Sunday).

Ballito Neighbourhood Watch (BNW) chairman Gary Frances said it was great to witness SAPS and security agencies working together so well.

“All the local security companies, together with SAPS, are sitting around the same table and sharing information to ensure we catch these criminals,” said Frances.

Also read: Burglar caught up a tree at Ballito estate

Frances told The Courier the thief had been very active in downtown Ballito and was suspected to have been involved in as many as 20 break-ins.

“He has been stealing laptops, smaller flatscreen TV’s and the like, basically anything he could fit into a backpack.

“We have been after him for some time now but it has been difficult to pin him down.”

Frances said that on Sunday they received a tip-off from an informant in Shakaskraal and were able to swoop in and arrest the man.

The thief was apparently selling the items he stole in Durban.

Umhlali SAPS spokesperson captain Vinny Pillay said they were also investigating the reselling of the stolen goods.

He expressed his gratitude for the cooperation between security and emergency agencies, neighbourhood watches and the police in tackling crime on the Dolphin Coast.