DETECTIVE Constable Sindisiwe Simelane, who is part of Amanzimtoti Detectives, secured a conviction of 15 years for a suspect of theft and tampering with, damaging or destroying of essential infrastructure.
Amanzimtoti Police Station’s communication officer Captain Charlene van der Spuy said that every day, the country is being targeted with these kinds of crimes which affect daily functioning and living conditions, resulting in millions being lost.
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“On May 23, 2022, at 23:20, members of Prasa (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) were doing foot patrol along Umbogintwini Station, when they noticed suspects busy digging and cutting cables. When the suspects noticed the patrol officers, they fled the scene. One suspect was apprehended, and a case was opened at Amanzimtoti Police Station for further investigation. The property recovered at the scene included 15 metres of 64-core copper cable and 22 metres of 21-core copper cable to the estimated value of R20 642,” she said.
Van der Spuy said Zamokwanda Dlamini (33) was charged and appeared in court. He was remanded in custody and awaited his bail application.
“Constable Simelane ensured his bail was denied, and he remained in custody during the course of the investigation. She worked diligently around the clock to verify the numerous false addresses given by the accused, ensuring he remained behind bars. She showed dedication, discipline and professionalism in obtaining all evidence needed to ensure this conviction,” she said.
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After the investigation was finalised, the case was brought before Chatsworth Regional Court for trial.
“On April 23, the accused was found guilty of the charges against him. The case was then remanded for sentencing. On May 23, the accused was sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment,” said Van der Spuy.
She said this conviction sends out a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated and that anyone caught will be punished by law.
“It builds trust between our external role-players, such as Prasa. It shows that working together to fight crime with our partners achieves good results,” concluded Van der Spuy.
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