Five crime syndicates have been dismantled over the past three months in major joint operations targeting car theft.

The co-ordinated crime-fighting effort led to breakthroughs against organised crime syndicates operating across Ballito, Salt Rock, Umhlali and parts of Durban.

According to Morné Steffens, chairperson of the Ballito Neighbourhood Watch, the success follows more than two months of work by the police, private security companies, Business Against Crime and other partners.

Steffens said multiple syndicates targeting the North Coast were identified and dismantled through close collaboration and shared intelligence.

“In the past two and a half months, five prominent syndicates linked to vehicle theft and related crimes have been disrupted through joint operations,” he said.

Security companies involved included Hawks Protection Services, Marshall Security, Fidelity SIU and McCarthy Risk, working alongside Saps Umhlali and specialised units.

Authorities dismantled one group responsible for daytime vehicle thefts after tracking a stolen Toyota Fortuner. The vehicle was recovered along with four additional stolen vehicles at a single property.

READ: Camera network helps curb crime in Salt Rock and Ballito | North Coast Courier

In a separate case, a pickpocketing syndicate linked to more than 30 cellphone thefts was arrested following a high-speed chase. Several stolen phones were recovered.

Steffens said the success was driven by information sharing, including the use of camera systems such as SNIPR and co-operation between security teams.

“These teams are not in it for recognition, but to make communities safer. Together, we are making a difference,” he said.

Acting iLembe district commissioner Brigadier Sibongile Mhlongo praised the partnership, saying it played a critical role in reducing crime.