Theft of motor vehicles and fraud – these are the charges that were placed on three suspects who were recently arrested, one of whom is reportedly Western Cape MPL and ANC member Danville Smith.
Smith and two other suspects who have been identified as foreign nationals by the police are sitting in the hot seats following their capture in Vredendal.
The capture operation emplored numerous joint forces.
“The arrests were made via an intelligence-driven operation by members attached to Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Investigation Unit, Vredendal Crime Intelligence, Flying Squad, Crime Prevention, Vehicle Crime Investigations Unit and Provincial Narcotics,” as Captain Frederick Van Wyk confirmed of the sting operation.
During the past six months, Vredendal Clusters had become aware of a modus operandi of motor vehicle theft through fraudulent means. The allegations emanated from owners who were advertising their vehicles on social media, according to the police.
“The registered owners of the vehicle were approached by a bogus buyer who made electronic payments and sent fraudulent bank notifications to the seller, which prompted the release of the vehicle with documentation. A successful integrated undercover operation was conducted, which also led to the seizure of a white BMW,” added Van Wyk.
Danville, who according to multiple reports was part of the arrested trio, has already had his fair share of dancing with the law, with corrupt activities at the top of the agenda. These led him to appear at the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Bellville, as IOL reminds.
As for Danville’s current position, some ANC members have been quick to note that he is already on the step aside rule, but more information regarding his arrest is being gathered.
Picture: @WesternCapeProvParl
