Crime round-up: Cops rake in the results

In the last 10 days, police within the Newcastle cluster have had their hands full, making several swift arrests across board.

Here’s a look at some of the latest cases making headlines this week:

Westville Prison escapee arrested in Madadeni

A 59-year-old man was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm at midnight last week.

Madadeni police were conducting routine patrols in the area, when the suspect, Ndeku Selby Khumalo allegedly attempted to flee the scene.

Police gave chase and managed to arrest him shortly thereafter.

Extensive investigations revealed the suspect had escaped from Westville Prison several years ago.

Khumalo recently appeared before the Madadeni Magistrate’s Court where he was remanded in custody pending his bail application.

He was later taken into custody by Durban police who have since charged him for the brazen escape.

With his freedom short-lived, police were commended on bringing Khumalo to book a second time around.

R2 000 worth of drugs recovered

Madadeni police recently arrested a 33-year-old woman for possession of Mandrax and ‘boss’ tablets.

After receiving a tip-off, police proceeded to raid the suspect’s home.

Eight Mandrax and four ‘boss’ tablets to the value of about R2 000 were found under the culprit’s pillow.

She is expected to appear before a Madadeni court soon.

The matter is currently subject to police investigations.

Unlicensed pistol recovered

A 28-year-old man was arrested after police received information that he was carrying an unlicensed pistol.

The suspect was tracked down at Newcastle Mall, where he was found in possession of the firearm.

He was arrested and detained, while officers filed the serial number of the weapon.

Newcastle police plan to conduct an extensive investigation to determine whether the suspect is linked to the ongoing taxi violence in and around Newcastle.

He is expected to appear before a court soon.

Police investigations continue.

Murderer sentenced to seven years behind bars

Newcastle Regional Magistrate’s Court recently sentenced Siphiwe Goodman Ndlovu to seven years’ imprisonment for murder.

This follows an incident that occurred in Terminus Street, Newcastle on April 23, 2013.

Ndlovu fatally wounded the victim, Emmanuel Kunene, by striking him with an iron pipe.

The community is thankful to police and the State for securing a conviction, and trusts the outcome of the case will serve as a deterrent to future offenders.

Crooks nabbed with stolen flat screen TV

Two men were arrested in possession of stolen property in the parking lot of a local mosque on August 21 at around 6.40am.

Police searched the suspects’ vehicle and found a flat screen television hidden under a blanket.

They could not account for the item, or provide documentation of ownership.

According to police, the culprits are 22 and 29 years old respectively.

The suspects appeared before a court on August 24. However, the outcome of the proceedings is yet to be disclosed.

Police investigations continue.

Man found in possession of an illegal firearm

A 25-year-old man was arrested on August 22 just after midnight.

The suspect was nabbed while in possession of an unlicensed firearm during a routine stop-and-search operation.

He is expected to appear before a court later this week.

Investigations continue.

Stolen vehicle recovered in oSizweni

The K9 Unit recently received word of a stolen vehicle stored at a home in oSizweni.

Law enforcement officers reportedly located and raided the home on August 23.

The vehicle was identified as a Toyota Auris with a Durban registration number.

A 29-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the crime and is expected to appear before court soon.

The matter is currently the subject of investigations.

Six thieves face the full extent of the law

Newcastle police arrested six suspects for theft in the Central Business District on Sunday.

The perpetrators were implicated in alleged robberies and cellphone thefts in and around town.

According to police, the culprits are aged between 25 and 35, and will appear in court on several charges.

Police advised the community to report criminal activity and play their part in ensuring a safer tomorrow.