A SWIFT response from Fidelity ADT and vigilant community members led to the arrest of four suspects involved in cable theft in Kariega over the weekend.
The arrest followed an alert raised by a community member and the prompt action taken by Fidelity ADT personnel.
In a statement, the security company said a Fidelity ADT Reaction officer was flagged down on Graaff-Reinet Road by a community member who had apprehended a suspect found in possession of a large roll of cable, allegedly stolen from a lamp-post outside a business.
While he was assisting in securing the suspect, a school bus driver stopped at the scene and alerted the officer to another instance of cable theft occurring just down the road. Reacting immediately, the officer proceeded to the location and encountered another community member who pointed out suspects emerging from a bushy area carrying additional rolls of copper cable, which they placed into a vehicle. With the support of local residents, the officer successfully detained three more suspects.
Throughout the incident, the Fidelity ADT Community Information Centre maintained direct communication with the officer, ensuring swift coordination with the Kariega SAPS. Upon their arrival, all four suspects, along with the stolen cable and the vehicle, were handed over to the authorities and transported to the Kariega police station.
“This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when communities and security providers work together,” said Bernadette Nel-Naude, Gqeberha General Manager for Fidelity ADT. “We commend all those involved for their vigilance and quick action.”
Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the SAPS, or their security provider to assist in combating crime in the area.
