By Buziwe Nocuze
Cape Town police confiscated 108 cellphones from a man who could not provide documentation for them.
Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said police from Mfuleni led an operation on Friday to clamp down on the increase in robberies in the area.
“The members approached an identified residence and searched the premises. They confiscated 108 cellphones, and they detained a 31-year-old man on charges of possession of presumed stolen property.”
The suspect is expected to appear soon in the Blue Downs Magistrates Court.
Yalezwa Heleba of Mfuleni told Scrolla.Africa how residents have been terrorised by criminals who rob them on the street and in their homes.
“Criminals drive around Mfuleni robbing people. If they see you in your yard with a phone, they come inside, point a firearm, and take the phone before driving away,” she said.
“The criminal the cops have arrested must name his partners. He’s not working alone. Some specialise in stealing televisions. They come into the house, take the TV and drive away with it.”
Another resident, speaking anonymously, said the area used to be quiet and peaceful before the criminals came.
“Now, we always lock our doors because we know they can come anytime and take whatever they want.
“Phones are also being taken away from people walking to the malls, at work, or at school.
“We pray that one day we can catch one of them. We won’t take them to the SAPS. We will teach them a lesson they will never forget,” said the resident.
Pictured above: Mfuleni residents have applauded the arrest of a man who had 108 phones in his possession.
Image source: Supplied
