Thieves overwhelmed by rapid community response

The combined powers of community awareness, WhatsApp emergency groups and good old tenacity was clearly demonstrated on Friday afternoon when one lawnmower thief was nabbed.
Derek Nuss, of Strathmore Park, was alert enough to spot two men making off with a lawnmower they had stolen at around 4pm from a garage on Rhoda Chawanda’s property on the corner of Buffalo and Fouchè Streets.
The motor on the electric gate was broken and the opportunistic thieves took their chance to access the garage and make off with the lawnmower. They made their getaway into the open veld across the road but they were spotted by Derek and his tree felling staff.

 Meanwhile, the SAPS were as equally as prompt and the chase was on. 

“My staff and a gardener gave chase on foot while I hurried to get my bakkie. Another resident rushed to get pliers to cut the fence so we could drive in.” Derek also alerted the NDE 911 emergency group and the response was overwhelming.
Mac Osman rushed to the scene while Azmath Khan and his security staff went around to the other side of the field towards the Glencoe road. Mr Mbatha who grazes cattle in the field also assisted. Meanwhile, the SAPS were as equally as prompt and the chase was on.
Derek and Azmath apprehended one man near the Glencoe road while his accomplice mingled with Majuba College students walking home to make his getaway.
The thief was handed over to the police. The lawnmower was recovered in the field across the road from the house where it had been stolen.
“It’s awesome how a person sends one message and so many people from all over Dundee respond,” said Derek. He was also praised by Mrs Chawande for his actions.

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