Three suspects were caught in two separate incidents recently after suspicious activities were noticed by Hermanus Public Protection (HPP) patrollers and CCTV operators. HPP is a ratepayer funded initiative in partnership with Fidelity ADT.

The first incident took place on Monday 8 February 2021, explains the Hermanus branch manager for Fidelity ADT, Marius Boshoff. “One of the HPP patrol officers noticed two well-known shoplifting suspects in the CBD and proceeded to follow them when he noticed they were acting suspiciously. He saw them enter a public bathroom with a bag they were carrying, and became even more suspicious when he saw them exit without the bag in question.”

The officer called for backup from a fellow patrol officer. “One officer went to look for the missing bag, while the second proceeded to pursue and corner the two suspects,” says Boshoff.

“The bag was located and found to contain brand new clothing to the value of R1300 inside. The suspects were questioned and they were unable to provide payment receipts for the items of clothing. Hermanus SAPS was called to take the suspects into custody, when the store manager confirmed that the items came from his shop and were not legitimately purchased by the suspects.

CCTV camera operators at HPP were responsible for the second arrest, which took place on Thursday night (11 February 2021). “The operators monitored a suspect walking in the Sandbaai area just before midnight. His demeanor appeared suspicious, and camera operators also realised that the person was outside of his dwelling past the lockdown related curfew time,” says Boshoff.

Camera operators continued to monitor his movement, while keeping responding officers in the area informed. This information was also shared with Fidelity ADT armed response officers and local neighborhood watch members.

“The suspect was eventually located and apprehended in Marine Drive. A search led to the discovery of several items that are typically used in house break-ins. He was taken into custody by the Hermanus SAPS, on charges that include the contravention of Disaster Management Act regulations.

“Well done to all our team members and partners involved in these arrests. Both incidents are examples of excellent team work and shows what can be achieved when we all work together to keep Hermanus safe,” says Boshoff.