Police arrest 7 suspects in Newcastle burglary operation
The arrests were made after co-ordinated intelligence stopped a planned business burglary.
Seven suspected syndicate members were arrested on Sunday evening (February 22) after they attempted to target a business in the Newcastle CBD.
Syndicate at work in Newcastle
According to Imran Ghafoor of the Amajuba District Crime Fighters Task Team (CCPA), a tip-off on Saturday indicated that a syndicate had arrived in Newcastle, intending to carry out safe-cutting burglaries.
Operational members immediately sprung into action. The team included the ITHEMBA Security SPES Intervention Unit, Amajuba District Crime Fighters Task Team (CCPA), Fidelity Investigations and Specialised Operations KZN, SAPS KZN MDOC Crime Intelligence, SAPS Newcastle K9 Unit, and SAPS Charlestown.
However, the criminals abandoned their plans at the last minute.
“On Sunday, further intelligence indicated that the group planned to target a business in Allen Street. Members were then strategically deployed and conducted surveillance at the identified premises,” said Ghafoor.
At about 22:30, a black Audi sedan was seen dropping off suspected gang members at various locations within the Newcastle CBD. Using advanced technology, it was confirmed that the suspects had gained access to a business premises, prompting the teams to move in quickly.
Escape foiled
“The suspects attempted to flee in different directions, but co-ordinated tactical action led to the successful arrest of seven suspects,” confirmed Ghafoor.
Recoveries included:
- Numerous stolen items
- Housebreaking implements
- One Audi motor vehicle
Linked to crimes across the country
Preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to multiple business burglaries and robberies across KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Mpumalanga.
Further investigations are underway to identify and apprehend additional suspects linked to the syndicate.
The operation once again highlights the effectiveness of collaboration between SAPS, private security and community crime-fighting structures.
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