Two suspects were recently arrested following incidents of theft out of a vehicle and theft of a vehicle, outside of Aandklas bar in Stellenbosch.
This was according to captain Nathalie Martin, spokesperson for South African Police Service (SAPS) Stellenbosch.
The stolen vehicle was recovered in Bloekombos, Kraaifontein on 18 September by SAPS Kraaifontein who also arrested the two suspects, said Martin.
Two suspects were arrested following the theft of a vehicle outside of a local bar in Stellenbosch. This was according to captain Nathalie Martin, spokesperson for South African Police Service Stellenbosch. The picture above shows the location where the incident happened. PHOTO: Anri van Helsdingen
Smash and grab
The suspects also broke into a different vehicle, according to the owner of the stolen vehicle, who requested to remain anonymous.
“[My friend’s] car was broken into and their personal items were stolen from the car,” said the victim.
The owner of the vehicle parked outside of Aandklas at approximately 22:00, however, when they returned at 1:30, their vehicle was gone, they said.
A vehicle was stolen outside of a local bar (pictured above) between 23:00 and 1:00 on 17 and 18 September, according to captain Nathalie Martin, spokesperson for South African Police Service Stellenbosch. Pictured above is a sign painted by Aandklas management. PHOTO: Anri van Helsdingen
The victim immediately reported the theft to SAPS Stellenbosch and a case was opened, they said.
The one suspect was found with the victim’s friend’s stolen belongings, and apprehended immediately, said the victim. This arrest led the police to the second suspect, claimed the victim.
Security obstacles
Security concerns in the Aandklas parking area are being addressed, according to Kenya Biesheuvel, a manager of the bar.
The managers of Aandklas have been working with local law enforcement to ensure patrons’ safety, said Biesheuvel.
Several steps are being taken by the managers of Aandklas to enhance security following the recent theft of a vehicle outside the bar, according to Kenya Biesheuvel, the manager of Aandklas. PHOTO: Anri van Helsdingen
“We’ve taken several steps to enhance security, including installing floodlights and cameras,” said Biesheuvel. The recent surge in crime behind the newly built outside wall, where there are no cameras, has prompted us to further fortify security measures, according to Biesheuvel.
The police’s focus should be on apprehending criminals and individuals responsible for these thefts, according to Biesheuvel.