Five alleged shoplifters were arrested in St Francis Bay on
Thursday after a high-speed chase on the N2.
According to Sgt. Majola Nkohli, on the day of the incident
at approximately 14:30, police received a complaint of shoplifting in progress
and with four suspects fleeing in a white Toyota Avanza from a chain liquor
store in St Francis Bay.
It is alleged that a description of a getaway vehicle was
circulated on all police communication radio channels. Moments later, members from Thornhill police
station spotted a vehicle fitting the description travelling on the N2 at high
speed and pursued it. A vehicle was
forced to pull off the road on the N2 near the Hankey off-ramp. The four
occupants were found in possession of new clothing items valued at R 8 200 from
various retail stores, most items still with security tags attached.
“The suspects could not account for the items and were
arrested for possession of suspected stolen property,” Nkohli said.
“Police also impounded the vehicle for further
investigation. A fifth suspect was arrested by security officers outside the
liquor store in St Francis Bay with liquor valued at R 1 120, while attempting
to board a getaway vehicle.
“The five suspects, aged between 29 and 58 years, are due to
appear in the Humansdorp Magistrates Court on Monday, August 2, 2021, on
charges ranging from shoplifting to possession of suspected stolen property,”
he added.
Acting District Commissioner, Brig. John Lebok, commended
members for their swift response and the arrest. Police are urging shop owners
that are using security tags not to allow bags wrapped in foils or covered with
a duct tape in their businesses as a precautionary measure,” Lebok added.
