A man thought to be in his 20s is wanted for theft after a bicycle belonging to a member of the Every Nation Rosebank Church youth group, was allegedly stolen, Parkview police have confirmed.
The man was known to frequent youth meetings held at the church every Sunday. “On 5 November [last year] after stealing a bicycle, the suspect disappeared and never went back to the church. He had been attending youth services at the church on numerous occasions,” said Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, spokesperson of the Parkview police.
“The suspect’s name and address are unknown, however, it is suspected that he is staying in Hillbrow.”
Sibeko said a case of theft was being investigated. “Anyone who recognises this man should please contact the Parkview Police Station.”
Mark Tittley, the youth pastor at Every Nation said Lucas Malata, the suspected perpetrator, returned to the church several days after he had allegedly stolen the bike. “Lucas did not come back to the church until Friday [10 November],” said Tittley. “At that point, myself and two other members of the church decided we were going to allow for him to return the bike on the Sunday.”
Tittley said Malata had no solid home base and appeared to be a troubled individual. He said this did not, however, raise alarm bells as the church was meant to be a restorative medium to assist such troubled individuals. Tittley added that even after stealing the bike, Malata had returned to the church and admitted to the crime; promising to return the bike.
“He was very quick to admit that he had taken the bicycle. He appeared to be repentant but looking back, we probably should’ve called the police and had him arrested.”
Details: Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect should contact Detective Constable Oscar Ranthocha on 011 486 5000 or 011 067 6000.
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