A suspected pickpocket targeting nightlife patrons in the city centre has been arrested following a coordinated response between private security and police earlier this week.

CCTV operators from Cachet Park CID NPC and Mooirivier Beskerming identified the suspect on Steve Biko Street, where he was allegedly preying on unsuspecting clubgoers leaving nearby venues.

According to the incident report, the suspect appeared to single out distracted revellers before stealing their cellular phones. A reaction unit was immediately dispatched, supported by patrol officers already in the area.

The suspect was apprehended shortly thereafter, and three cellular phones believed to be stolen were recovered.

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who were also on the scene, effected the arrest. At least two victims have since opened theft cases.

Cachet Park CID manager Leandro de Beer said the swift coordination between CCTV operators, reaction officers and police played a critical role in the arrest.

“Our operators acted quickly after identifying suspicious behaviour, and our reaction teams responded immediately. This kind of teamwork is essential in ensuring that offenders are removed from our streets,” de Beer said.

It was further noted that the suspect allegedly changed clothing after stealing a phone from his first victim, seemingly in an attempt to evade identification.

Investigations are ongoing.