PORT ELIZABETH - NORTH END VW DEALERSHIP UNAWARE OF STOLEN VEHICLE TILL POLICE RETURN IT TO THEM WITH SUSPECT

It is alleged that at about 15:10, Warrant Officer Siphumele Msindwana and Constable Sihle Dayile were patrolling in New Brighton when they noticed four brand new VW Polos with no registration numbers driving in a convoy.

The members became suspicious as to why these vehicles were in convoy in that area. As they stopped the driver of the first vehicle, the other vehicles drove off.

On questioning the driver, he offered various explanations, one such explanation was that he worked for a VW dealership in North End. After failing to convince the officers, Warrant Officer Msindwana took the suspect with him to North End to verify his story while Constable Dayile followed in the VW Polo.

As they neared the dealership, the suspect backtracked on his story and offered another explanation. The dealership were not even aware that vehicles were unofficially driven out of their depot until it was brought to their attention by the members.

It is alleged that more than 5 vehicles may have been taken however an inventory must still be done to establish the exact number of vehicles taken.

The suspect from New Brighton was detained on a charge of theft of motor vehicle and is expected to appear in court soon. Further arrests are expected.

Mount Road Cluster Commander, Major General Patekile applauded the good work and investigation by the two Flying Squad members.  ‘A police officer must always be alert and on his guard when patrolling. If they notice something suspicious or out of the ordinary, they must act on that suspicion until they are satisfied that everything is in order.  Although the other vehicles got away, we are confident that more recoveries and arrests will follow soon,’ added Maj Gen Patekile.

via - SAPS