Two suspects have been arrested following the recovery of stolen jewellery during a police operation at a retail premises in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal. The items, which include high-value watches, have been linked to a robbery that took place in East London earlier this year.
Stolen Goods Traced to Westville Premises
Police from Westville and Pinetown, supported by Crime Intelligence and private security firms, raided a jewellery store at Westwood Mall on Wednesday afternoon. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals, aged 28 and 38, who are being held at Westville police station for further investigation.
Captain Elizabeth Squires of the Westville SAPS confirmed that the jewellery recovered is believed to have been stolen from a store in East London. The value of the recovered items is estimated at R130,000.
Legal Proceedings Underway
The suspects have been charged under Section 36 and Section 37 of the Criminal Procedure Act, as well as for contravention of the Second-Hand Goods Act and defeating the ends of justice.
Implications for the Jewellery Trade
The case draws attention to challenges associated with the resale of jewellery and the importance of compliance with second-hand goods regulations. Retail jewellers and second-hand dealers are advised to ensure proper documentation and verify the origin of items as part of regulatory compliance.
