| House robbery and attempted murder suspect traced to prison | |
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| Date Published: | 2018/06/20 |
| Description Details: | |
Media Statement from Eastern Cape Media Centre Port Elizabeth: Dedication, passion and a love for his job is what prompted Detective Constable Ridwaan Baatjies to continue with his investigative duties even while on vacation leave. His diligence paid off today when he arrested a 30 year old suspect who is already in custody at the St Alban’s prison for another house robbery. On 7 February 2018, a 20 year old NMU student was brutally attacked in his flat in Gomery Place in Summerstrand. Due to his injuries, he was hospitalised in the intensive care unit for a long time. The motive for the attack was robbery. In the last two weeks and while on vacation leave, Constable Baatjies followed every possible lead in trying to locate the suspect and through his thorough investigation and gathering of information, the suspect was traced to St Alban’s Prison where he is awaiting trial for another house robbery committed in April 2018, also in Summerstrand. On 27 April 2018, the suspect had entered a house in Winchester Way and held the complainant at knife point. He stole cell phones and a laptop. The following day, 28 April 2018, he was traced through the cellphone to a house in Walmer location. The stolen property was also recovered. He remained in custody and the case is remanded for 22 June 2018. He will appear in the Port Elizabeth magistrates’ court on Friday, 22/06 for the attack on the student. Charges of house robbery and attempted murder have been opened against him. The Cluster Commander for Mount Road, Major General Thembisile Patekile lauded the young detective Constable for his hard work and dedication. ‘The core business of the SAPS is to fight crime and bring criminals to justice and actions such as this is indicative that our police officers are dedicated to their tasks in ensuring that cases are thoroughly investigated and suspects apprehended,’ added Major General Patekile. Media enquiries: Col Priscilla Naidu - 0713628726
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