KwaZulu Natal, South Africa: Reaction Officers and members of the Verulam SAPS Crime Prevention Unit apprehended a man attempting to break out of a business premises yesterday afternoon (Wednesday).
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) received a call for assistance from a man at approximately 18:52 in the evening after he heard banging sounds from inside a furniture store on Wick Street in the Verulam CBD – KZN.
Reaction Officers were immediately dispatched and reached and, on arrival, met with SAPS Officers.
Law Enforcement Officers heard the banging sounds and requested a manager at the scene to open the store. The banging noise stopped while awaiting the arrival of the key holder. First Responders then penetrated the premises and conducted an extensive search.
Officers discovered the alarm system damaged and a hole in the ceiling (picture 3) in one of the offices. After further investigation, it was established that the roof was slabbed, which prevented the suspect from escaping. The search continued in the store, which resulted in the suspect being located hiding under a bed on display.
During an interview, he explained that he was accidentally locked in the store. He attempted to break out with a crow bar (picture 2) which he allegedly located inside the premises.
He further alleged that he contacted a family member for assistance but could not explain why he decided to conceal himself from Reaction Officers and Police Officers. He further could not explain as to why the alarm system was damaged.
He was placed under arrest and transported to the Verulam South Africa Police Station (SAPS).