PORT ELIZABETH – An observant security guard at a major shopping mall in Port Elizabeth alerted patrolling police members of males behaving suspiciously in the parking area.
It is alleged that on Tuesday, 8 December 2020 at about 13:30, a 62-year-old woman parked her Toyota Tazz in a parking bay and went inside. At about 15:50, SAPS Mount Road Crime Prevention Unit members were patrolling the parking area focussing on vehicle related crimes. They were stopped by the centre’s security guard who alerted them about three suspicious males in the parking lot. The members approached a Toyota Avanza with the three male occupants seated inside. Upon searching the males, two were found with Toyota keys with remote controls. They were parked next to the Toyota Tazz. They gave fictitious explanations as to the possession of the keys. Their alibis were checked and it was established that they were lying.
Upon closer inspection of the Tazz, the members noticed that the door was unlocked. While still busy at the car, the complainant arrived and informed the officials that she had locked all the doors and windows prior to entering the mall. A lock breaking implement was found under the Toyota Tazz. The ignition of the Tazz was severely damaged and the vehicle had to be towed away.
The three males aged 19, 27 and 33 were arrested on the spot and detained on charges of attempted theft of motor vehicle and possession of car breaking implements. Their vehicle was also confiscated. They are expected to appear in court soon.
