BLOEMFONTEIN – The theft of high-value gate motors by a syndicate leads to a spate of crimes. This crime trend include house burglaries, theft of valuable property, theft of vehicles, and damage to property.
The Bloemfontein police has strongly warned the public about a sharp increase in this trend of theft of gate motor. It is believed that members of the syndicate target gate motors also for the purpose of re-selling items on the informal market in addition to house break-ins and house robberies.
The Parkweg Police Station reported that recently numerous residents have reported incidents of gate motor theft the period 23 – 26 November. Lt Col. Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the Free State police in Bloemfontein, said that according to reports received, most of the incidents took place in the early morning between 02:00 and 06:00.
“The types of gate motors targeted are Centurion-made, black and green in colour.
“The value ranges between R12 000 and R15 000,” he said.
Covane said the incidents took place in Universitas, Westdene, and Fleurdal.
He said the streets from which the gate motors were stolen include De Bruyn Street, Wikkie Saayman Street, Koos van der Walt Street, Ockie Geyser Street, Deryck Nel Street, Stoffel van Wyk Street, Rhyno Kriel Avenue, and Veen Crescent in Universitas.
Similar incidents of the syndicate targeting gate motors were reported in suburbs that include Dan Pienaar, Pellissier, and Heuwelsig.
The police have yet to make arrests in connection with the latest reported incidents of gate motor crimes, but a short list of potential suspects have been identified.
Two suspects were identified with the help of closed-circuit camera footage.
The first suspect was wearing a blue jacket and black trousers.
The second one was wearing a red sports jacket and black trousers.
“The suspects were driving in a red Audi with a sunroof and dark windows,” said Covane.
Any member of the public who might have information about the theft incidents or a place where gate motor parts are sold illegally is requested to contact the investigating officer Capt. Sabata Jafta Moseme on 082 526 2713.
Alternatively, the information can be submitted on the My SAPS app, or members of the public can call the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
