Two suspected vehicle syndicate thieves aged 37 and 32 were arrested last night and various implements used in vehicle theft as well as three stolen vehicles were seized in a multidisciplinary operation in Naturena, south of Johannesburg.
It is reported that intelligence information was received which prompted an observation by the law enforcement team comprising the Hawks' Tactical Operations Management Section, Gauteng Traffic's Saturation Unit, SAPS Ekurhuleni Tactical team, SAPS Johannesburg K9, SAPS Gauteng Province Serious and Violent Crimes unit, SAPS Gauteng Province Crime Intelligence, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect and ICB Insurance Crime Bureau operationalised the information.
The vehicle described in the intelligence information was observed as it came out of residential premises in Naturena and was tactically contained.
Two suspects were arrested and electronic devices used in the theft of motor vehicles as well as three military grade signal jammers were recovered.
Further investigation of the suspects' vehicle, a grey Mazda CX-5 revealed that it was reported stolen as per Sandton case.
The team proceeded to secure and search the premises from whence the suspects came and discovered two more stolen vehicles, a white Mazda CX-5 and a grey Honda Civic which were identified as stolen in Parkview and Alberton, respectively.
Vehicle VIN labels, multiple false registration plates, vehicle registration papers, device used to start vehicles without tempering with its electronics but without a key, gloves and cellphones were confiscated.
The suspects are believed to be part of a syndicate which targets high-end motor vehicles, especially SUVs in and around Gauteng Province.
The suspects will appear on Monday in the Booysens Magistrates' Court on charges of possession of stolen motor vehicles, possession of signal jamming devices and possession of vehicle break-in as well as vehicle theft implements. – SAnews.gov.za
