Police investigate theft of R200k worth of stationery at Mamelodi school

Police are investigating the alleged theft of stationery worth more than R200 000 at Shirinda Primary School in Mamelodi West.

A man was nabbed last week Friday after being spotted and caught by the school caretaker with the help of a resident staying near the school.

The docket was sent to court on February 17 and the suspect was awaiting his appearance before the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court, according to police.

Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said police have already started the investigation.

Van Dyk said the suspect was injured during the chase and was taken to hospital for medical treatment under police guard. He was later charged with business burglary.

“The accused will remain in police custody as they are still waiting for the fingerprints to see if they can link the suspect with previous burglary cases at the school.

A resident said he believes the man was a wanted suspect.

He said the school had experienced burglaries very often, since 2018.

“Earlier this year, three days before school opening day, someone stole stationery and on February 10 the school experienced another break-in,” he said.

Gauteng Department of Education Steve Mabona said the department is aware and concerned about the two burglaries at the said school.

Mabona said the matter was reported to police and they are investigating the circumstances surrounding these incidents.

“We have adequate Learning and Teaching Support Material at the school, and as such curriculum delivery continues. We would like to implore community members to refrain from stealing school resources as this impedes the education of our learners,” said Mabona.

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