A slippery laptop thief of the east of Pretoria was jailed last week.
Kirwin Cowen Arendse (40) — on police’s wanted list until recently — was sentenced in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court last Thursday.
Brooklyn police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach said he pleaded guilty to the possession of stolen goods, reckless and/or negligence driving, and contempt of court. Arendse was sentenced to three years in prison.
“Arendse’s arrest followed four days after the Brooklyn police asked the community to assist them with information on his whereabouts,” said Weilbach.
“An anonymous member of the community phoned the investigating officer after he saw Arendse’s photo in the media. This led the police to an address in Eersterust where Arendse was hiding. He was arrested on 1 August.”
Arendse was found in possession of a stolen laptop.
In September last year, police on patrol noticed a vehicle speeding away from the Menlo Park Primary School. A chase ensued and the fleeing car crashed into another vehicle in Hazelwood.
A laptop reported as stolen was found inside the vehicle. Brooklyn police arrested Arendse and an accomplice. This was not his first arrest as he had committed numerous similar offences.
Arendse made his first appearance in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court in February this year. He was granted bail and the matter was postponed. Arendse jumped bail and a warrant for his arrest was issued.
Brooklyn police station commander Brigadier Kushie Nair thanked the community and the media for their help in cornering him.
“The relationship between the community, police and media is integral in the fight against crime.”
She also praised the investigating officer for his diligence and dedication.
Weilbach urged people to remain vigilant to help the police in the fight against crime.
“Anyone who has information that can assist in exposing people involved in illegal activities, could report it anonymously at: Crime Stop Tip-off line 08600 10111 or SMS Crime Line 32211. Remember to mention who did what to whom, when, where, why and how.”
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email toeditorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 072 435 7717.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
- We have exciting news! We’re offering a free alert to help you always be in the loop. Send an email with the word ‘Subscribe’ to breakingnews@rekord.co.za to receive your free daily breaking news update.
