Combined efforts by SAPS Potchefstroom Detectives and the North West Crime Intelligence Overt Team resulted in the arrest of a 49-year-old suspect allegedly involved in a motor vehicle and electrical appliance repair scheme.

On Friday, October 23, Crime Intelligence received a request for assistance to identify, trace and arrest the suspect, who allegedly targeted members of the public seeking repairs to their motor vehicles and electrical appliances.

“The suspect allegedly provided quotations for repair services and, upon acceptance of the quotations, demanded upfront payments from clients. After receiving payment, the suspect would allegedly disappear without carrying out the agreed-upon work, leaving victims financially prejudiced,” said North West police spokesperson Constable Thuto Bobelo.

The suspect was arrested and is expected to appear before the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court on Monday, October 26.

Further enquiries have revealed that several other potential victims may have fallen prey to the alleged scheme.