By Thokozani Mazibuko
There was a swift response to a reported vehicle theft, police have apprehended two suspects believed to be involved in a series of car thefts in the region.
Senior Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, the Chief Police Information and Communication Officer confirmed that the arrests were made on November 4, 2024, following an incident that occurred in the early hours of November 3.
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The first reported case involved a 31-year-old man from Fairview, who discovered that his maroon Ford Fiesta, registered PSD 734 AL and valued at E68,000, was stolen from the premises of St. Paul’s Primary School while he was attending a function.
Police were able to track down the suspects, a 34-year-old man from Mbekelweni and a 38-year-old man from Ndzingeni, within a day, leading to their arrest and subsequent charges related to the theft.
In a separate incident, police are investigating another vehicle theft that took place on November 2, 2024, at Hilltop Shopping Complex.
A 40-year-old man from Nkwalini Zone 2 reported that his blue Mazda 3, registered ISD 729 CM, was taken while parked with the keys left in the ignition.
The REPS are urging the public to be vigilant and mindful of vehicle security, especially when leaving keys in unattended vehicles.
The police are actively seeking any information that could lead to the recovery of the stolen vehicles and the identification of additional suspects involved in these thefts.
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Assistant Superintendent Derrick Makhanya of the Hhohho Regional Crime Branch encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward.
“Every piece of information can be crucial in solving these cases and ultimately preventing further thefts,” Vilakati stated.
Community members are advised to contact Inspector Akhona Dludlu at the Mbabane Desk Office or the Mbabane Police Station for any leads. The public can also reach emergency services by dialling 999.
