R12k funeral policy money stolen, suspect arrested with R3,8k left!

Following a theft case in Welkom, the Welkom Public Order Policing (POP) arrested a 59-year-old man in Bronville on Friday, June 24th.

According to the Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, captain Stephen Thakeng, a 40-year-old woman withdrew funeral policy money in preparation of her father’s funeral, then put it inside her car parked in Bok street, Welkom CBD on Wednesday, 21 June.

“A bag containing a smart card ID, driver license and moneyamounting to R12 000 was stolen from the woman’s car the same day,” added Thakeng.

After realizing that the cash was stolen, the woman went to the Welkom police station to register a case of theft out of motor vehicle.

On Friday afternoon, the Welkom POP operationalized information received from crime intelligence gatherers. This operation led to a house in Neptune street, Bronville.

Upon arrival, the police found the suspect wearing the same outfit he wore on the day of the crime. This was evident from the CCTV footage of a neighbouring business.

“The police received permission to search the premisses and found money amounting to R3 800 hidden a under the carpet.” informed Thakeng.

When asked where the rest of the money was, the 59-year-old responded that he already spent it.

During the arrest, the police seized the money found along with the clothes hw wore then as part of evidence.

The suspect will appear before the Welkom Magistrate Court facing theft out of motor vehicle on Monday, June 26th.

“We hereby warn motorists to avoid leaving valuables items, cash, groceries and clothes in their vehicles. Furthermore, one must always ensure that their vehicle is properly locked to curb stealing from their vehicles.