A 39-year-old man has been arrested in Bloemfontein after authorities discovered hundreds of suspected stolen electronic devices inside his flat, with an estimated value of R2.5 million.
The arrest was the result of a targeted operation involving multiple law enforcement teams. It followed the earlier apprehension of 12 individuals believed to be involved in recent robberies in Bloemfontein’s central business district. The operation focused not only on those committing the robberies but also on those suspected of dealing in stolen goods.
Officers acting on intelligence visited a residence on Alexandra Road, where they encountered a foreign national who initially resisted giving them access to his apartment. After some negotiation, police were allowed inside, where they found around ten large bags filled with various brands of smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Initial investigations revealed a total of 554 mobile devices, all suspected to be stolen. Authorities believe the items were being prepared for transportation out of the city.
The suspect, who reportedly owns a cellphone shop, is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on April 22. He faces charges related to the possession of suspected stolen property.
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Meanwhile, police are urging anyone who has recently been a victim of cellphone theft or robbery and has not yet filed a report to come forward with proof of ownership in order to reclaim their stolen property.
Investigators are also working to track down four other foreign nationals who are believed to be linked to the arrested man. The case remains under active investigation.