The thieves reportedly broke a glass sliding door and forced a steel security gate open to gain entry to the liquor store before making off with alcohol to the value of nearly R5 000 on Thursday 9 April.
“I received the call about the break-in from ADT Security company at about 01:55. While on my way to the store I noticed three police vehicles on their way to the scene and by 02:15 the police returned with the suspects they had arrested in Voëlklip,” said Van Niekerk.
Van Niekerk estimates the value of the stolen goods at more than R4 000. “It could have been worse but luckily the shelves weren’t too full as a lot of people stocked up on alcohol just before lockdown came into effect,” he stated.
Potelwa says the incident is one of several break-ins that have occurred at liquor stores across the province recently.
Mbekweni police have arrested six youths following an incident where a liquor store in the area was broken into and alcohol looted on Wednesday 8 April. “It is alleged that about 20 youths stormed the business premises after they broke a door to the store thereby gaining access. Yet-to-be determined quantities of liquor were taken,” reports Potelwa.
On Thursday 9 April, Elsies River police were called out to Avonwood mall where another break-in into a liquor store had occurred. Several suspects are alleged to have gained entry to the store by breaking a door open and they looted bottles of alcohol.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt General Yolisa Matakata has warned those who break the law that they will be sought and arrested. “We have intensified all efforts in a bid to deal with those who commit crime,” says Lt General Matakata.
