NATIONAL NEWS - A man sought for the brutal beating of a two-year-old boy at a residential complex in Florida, Roodepoort has been apprehended after two weeks on the run.
According to reports, the suspect is well known in local crime circles and is involved in various offenses, including petty crime, street robberies, burglaries, vehicle theft, and drug-related activities.
He was finally located after an extensive search, hiding at a friend’s house in Toekomsrus, Randfontein.
Florida CPF chairperson Farhaad Sardiwalla stated that the executive committee of Florida CPF, along with AfriForum Roodepoort, worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the suspect’s capture in a case that has shocked and devastated residents.
“Over the past two weeks, we followed up on every lead we came across, visiting numerous locations— often late at night — in areas such as Florida, Westbury, and Newclare. We spent many nights out on the streets, frequently getting drenched in the rain as we pursued information,” said Sardiwalla.
“Finally, yesterday (Saturday, 22 February), we managed to convince some of the suspect’s acquaintances to reveal an address in Toekomsrus where he might be hiding.
“We mobilised our teams and set off to Toekomsrus. After some searching, we arrived at the correct property around 03:00.
“The homeowner let us in, and as the suspect attempted to flee, he must have realised there was no escape. We even involved his father, who lives in Cape Town, to help talk him down.”
Both Sardiwalla and AfriForum Roodepoort chairperson Werner Brits criticised the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses (FCS) unit of the police, stating that the investigating officer was unreachable and the shift commander on duty was uncooperative in approving and facilitating the suspect’s detention and arrest.
“Fortunately, with the help of our shift commander at Florida Police Station and the acting station commander, Colonel Ivy Mabuso, we obtained permission to detain the suspect and transport him to Florida for arrest.”
A small convoy of vehicles, carrying exhausted yet relieved CPF and AfriForum members along with a visibly nervous suspect, arrived at Florida Police Station shortly before 04:00, where he was safely handed over to the authorities.
“We are proud of the dedication and professionalism shown by everyone involved. Most importantly, we are relieved that justice can now take its course for the innocent child who endured this terrible ordeal,” added Sardiwalla.
“We also want to thank the community for their support and involvement, which ultimately led to the suspect’s capture.”
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
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