The deployment of law enforcement personnel in identified hotspot areas has led to a positive outcome following the arrest of a 35-year-old male on Tuesday morning.
According to police, members of the Makhanda SAPS Crime Prevention Unit and the Highway Patrol Unit were conducting targeted patrols in Froude Street at approximately 10:00 on 24 February 2026. Officers observed a man acting suspiciously while carrying a heavy bag.
Upon approaching the individual, the police requested that he open the bag for inspection. The subsequent search revealed a number of damaged prepaid water meters inside.
Preliminary investigations indicate that one of the damaged meters had been stolen from a nearby residence. The theft resulted in the property being flooded with streaming water.
The suspect has been charged with damage to essential infrastructure and possession of suspected stolen property. He is expected to appear before the Makhanda Magistrate’s Court soon.