At least 12 suspects will face the music for their alleged involvement in the Umlazi looting spree that occurred as a result of the KZN floods.
Umlazi looting: 12 suspects due in court
Earlier this week, Swisher Post reported on an alleged looting incident that was caught on camera, in the wake of devastating floods that, to-date, have claimed more than 300 lives.
Turns out, this was not the only looting incident in the region.
More footage surfaced of an alleged plot led by an unknown faction of Umlazi locals, where a number of supermarkets were broken into and emptied.
Good evening all please be aware that boxer store in J section Umlazi has been looted, h section shopping center and u save. @eNCA @CyrilRamaphosa @ pic.twitter.com/3fx6zdENgs
— Mr Chappies (@Travispaliyath1) April 13, 2022
In a statement, KZN police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala confirmed that alleged looters targeted two businesses in Umlazi’s H and J sections, making off with stolen groceries and electronic appliances.
The CCTV footage of the supermarket looting showed a large group of suspects.. However, a team of police officers who had responded to the scene managed to take down and cuff 12 suspects.
“Police swiftly responded at both premises and arrested a total of 12 suspects. The suspects were arrested for charges of business burglary and possession of stolen property,” Lt-Col Gwala revealed.
While an effort is underway to track down more suspects, police managed to recover some of the stolen goods, and impound a vehicle that was used to transport the stolen goods.
The 12 arrested suspects are expected to appear at a court in Umlazi on theft charges.