Burglary disrupted service at licensing department
Initially the municipality said that the licensing station was closed due to technical difficulties.
The recent disruption in services at the licensing department was due to a burglary that occurred on Friday May 2.
In it’s initial statement the municipality said that it was experiencing technical difficulties.
The DA submitted a formal request to the Executive Mayor and Municipal Manager to investigate the circumstances surrounding a burglary that occurred at the JB Marks licensing station on the evening of Friday, 2 May 2025.
According to Hans Jurie Moolman, DA councillor within the municipality, the DA had by Sunday May 4 ascertained all available information from members of the public and the municipality so that we could drive for answers.
“The DA conducted an urgent oversight at the premises, and we discovered that the robbery had in fact taken place. The DA got confirmation from a security official at the scene. The DA’s questions and investigation have revealed that security guards were overwhelmed by the criminal perpetrators, and one guard who was apparently drugged had been taken to hospital. The DA photographed the building, and these pictures show visible damage to computer equipment, the entrance door, and the safe. Based on our oversight and fact-finding, the DA is demanding a thorough investigation to determine how guards at a key municipal office can be overwhelmed by criminals,” Moolman said.
The matter is being investigated by die police.
Jeanette Tshite, the municipal spokesperson confirmed the incident.
“We acknowledge the security concerns raised by the Democratic Alliance and assure all stakeholders
that the matter is being handled with the seriousness it deserves. We kindly request that all parties
allow the investigation and formal processes to run their course. The Municipality remains committed to transparency and accountability in all its operations. A detailed report will be presented to the JB Marks Local Municipality Council in due course. We thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we work with law enforcement to resolve
this matter,” she said in a statement.
