Five suspects, including a 14-year-old, have been arrested after allegedly breaking into container tuck shops. Image: Supplied
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South Africa
Five arrested after tuck shop burglary in Hammarsdale
Five suspects, including a 14-year-old, have been arrested after allegedly breaking into container tuck shops and damaging property in Hammarsdale, with police warning that criminal acts during protests will not be tolerated.
Five suspects have been arrested in connection with a business burglary and malicious damage to property following an incident in Woody Glen, Mpumalanga township, near Hammarsdale, in the early hours of Tuesday.
In a statement on Tuesday the police said they responded to reports of a group of people breaking into container tuck shops along Embuthweni Main Road in Unit 4. One suspect was found and arrested inside one of the tuck shops, while four others were cornered and apprehended as they attempted to flee the scene.
The suspects, aged between 14 and 27, are expected to face charges of business burglary and malicious damage to property. They are currently being processed and are due to appear in court soon.
Police have urged residents participating in marches and demonstrations to avoid violence, criminal activity and intimidation. Authorities said while officers remain committed to ensuring the safety of lawful protests, they will take firm action against anyone involved in criminal conduct or lawlessness.
