Cape Town Petrol Theft Suspect Caught in Plumstead Following Police Operation
A man suspected of being involved in multiple fuel thefts in Cape Town was apprehended in Plumstead on Monday night after a coordinated effort by law enforcement and private security.
Authorities had been monitoring a black Ford Fiesta after the driver reportedly filled up with R800 worth of petrol at a station in Gatesville, Athlone, on Sunday, and left without paying.
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This same vehicle was allegedly tied to an incident at Engen Simon’s Auto Centre in Goodwood last week, where the driver also fled without settling a R500 petrol bill.
ANPR Technology Aids in Capturing Cape Town Petrol Thief
The suspect was taken into custody around 10:04 PM during a joint operation by Diep River police and Secu Watch Protection.
A member of Secu Watch Protection indicated that the suspect was located using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology.
“He activated one of our ANPR cameras, and that’s how we determined he frequents the area,” explained the member.
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“We reached out to the petrol stations to obtain case numbers associated with him, as we were already familiar with his presence in the area.
“When his vehicle triggered those cameras, we had SAPS on standby, ready for his arrival. Upon apprehending him, he begged us to release him, promising not to repeat his actions.”
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Drugs Allegedly Discovered in Suspect’s Vehicle
The security officer mentioned that drugs were reportedly found in the suspect’s vehicle during the arrest.
Police spokesperson Thembakazi Mpendukana confirmed that a 36-year-old man was arrested by Diep River police for drug possession.
Mpendukana stated that the suspect has already made an appearance in court.
Investigations into the fuel theft claims are still ongoing.
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