Car theft syndicate probe leads to 2 arrests in Centurion

An investigation has been launched into whether two men who were arrested in Centurion on Tuesday for alleged theft out of motor vehicles may be linked to a broader criminal network operating across Gauteng. Pretoria Rekordreportsthat the arrests were made at a shopping centre in Centurion during a co-ordinated, multi-agency operation involving the police and several private security partners. According to Monitor Net Security spokesperson JP le Roux, whose team was one of those involved in the operation, the arrests followed a tip-off.A white BMW X1 was allegedly used in multiple theft-related crimes across the province.

He said members received information about the vehicle and later identified it travelling on the N1 from Soweto towards Pretoria. “Further observation revealed the vehicle displayed false registration plates, prompting teams to implement an operational strategy to monitor and safely intercept the suspects without compromising public safety,” said Le Roux.The vehicle, occupied by two men, later entered the shopping centre, followed by law enforcement and security teams. Le Roux noted that the co-ordinated takedown was executed swiftly, ensuring that the suspects had no opportunity to escape.

“The two men were arrested at the scene and detained at the Olievenhoutbosch Police Station.” He added that the scene was processed by the police and the local criminal record centre, while the vehicle was impounded and transported to the Pretoria West pound for further forensic processing. Authorities confiscated several items during the operation, including an additional set of number plates, cellular phones, vehicle breaking implements, two remote jamming devices, gloves, and the white BMW. Le Roux confirmed that investigations are underway to determine the suspects’ involvement in additional cases across Gauteng, with authorities working to link them to other reported incidents of theft out of motor vehicles.

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He noted that the operation demonstrated the value of intelligence-driven policing and strong collaboration between law enforcement and private security partners. “We extend our appreciation to all units involved for their swift response and professionalism,” he added.

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