Subject: Cellphone Theft Operation – Suspects Apprehended
Date of Incident: 11 July 2026
Location: Loftus Versfeld Stadium and Surrounding Areas, Pretoria
On Saturday evening, 11 July 2026, members of the Old East Safety Forum participated in a coordinated anti-cellphone theft operation in and around Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The operation was conducted in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), ProShield Security, Interactive Security, Axon Security, Tactical Edge Security, and Fidelity-ADT.
Prior to the event, identified hotspot areas were assessed, and operational resources were deployed accordingly. The proactive deployment proved effective, with only one known cellphone snatching reported within the areas covered by the operation. Spotting teams successfully identified suspicious activity throughout the evening, contributing to the overall success of the operation.
During patrols on Park Street, SAPS members observed a white Audi A4 travelling at high speed under suspicious circumstances. With the assistance of private security partners, the vehicle was instructed to stop. The driver failed to comply and fled the scene at high speed, resulting in a pursuit. The vehicle subsequently lost control in Stanza Bopape Street, mounted the sidewalk, and sustained damage to its right front suspension before coming to a stop.
The occupants, three African males, were detained, and the vehicle was searched. Officers discovered that the vehicle had been fitted with false registration plates. A further search revealed one black iPhone 12 wrapped in aluminium foil, a common method used in an attempt to prevent the device from being tracked. The occupants were unable to provide a lawful explanation for possession of the cellphone or identify its owner. The driver also failed to produce a valid driver’s licence.
All three suspects were arrested for possession of a suspected stolen cellphone. The driver faces additional charges of reckless and negligent driving. The suspects were detained under Sunnyside SAPS Case 275/7/2026.
The swift and coordinated response by SAPS, supported by members of Axon Security, ProShield Security, Tactical Edge Security, Fidelity-ADT, Interactive Security, and the Old East Safety Forum, was instrumental in the successful apprehension of the suspects.
Following the arrests, additional cases linked to Johannesburg and Olivenhoutbosch were also reported, and investigations are continuing to determine whether the suspects are connected to other cellphone theft incidents.
The Old East Safety Forum extends its appreciation to all participating law enforcement and private security partners for their professionalism, cooperation, and commitment to enhancing public safety during the operation.
