An increase in tyre theft has led the police to believe that a syndicate is operating in eMalahleni.

The syndicate is targeting parked cars at night to steal rims and tyres.

Brazen thieves are putting a ‘spanner in the wheels’ in eMalahleni
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In the most recent incident, Francois van der Westhuizen woke up yesterday to find that someone has tampered with his vehicle.

“This happened just after 03:00 in the morning. All the tyres were loosened and one already off,” Van der Westhuizen said.

He added that the culprits were just a bit too quick and manoeuvred over his wall like a lightning flash.

“I was just a bit too slow to catch the last one over the wall,” Van der Westhuizen said.

It seems that the syndicate moved from Lava and Sangira Street in Ben Fleur to Second Street in Blancheville.

Witbank SAPS station commander Brigadier Moses Bolton said they have noticed the rise in tyre thefts and concluded that it is a syndicate operating in the city.

Brigadier Bolton strongly advises vehicle owners to avoid parking their vehicles outside overnight, especially in areas without proper security.

Bolton said that police patrols have been intensified in the affected areas.

“Park your car in a well-lit area or inside a locked garage. Get yourself an anti-lock device. Get surveillance cameras and an alarm system for your home,” Captain Eddie Hall, police spokesperson, said.

If you notice any suspicious activity, contact SAPS 079 891 5570 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.