Security issues persistently haunt the Netball World Cup as the event’s security team, led by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints), is currently probing various incidents of theft.
Before the opening game, concerns arose due to a social media post made by Jamaica’s captain, Jhaniele Fowler. In her post, she mentioned that money was stolen from her purse and expressed feeling unsafe in South Africa.
Also read: Jamaican netball players allegedly robbed and ready to leave Cape Town
News24 reported that General Charl Annandale, a member of Natjoints, addressed the media during a briefing at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, which is the venue for the Netball World Cup. During the briefing, he disclosed that five cases of theft had been reported and were under investigation.
Annandale said, ‘When it comes to the case of theft from the Jamaican team, it’s still under investigation. We have five cases reported to date whereby three teams are involved: Trinidad & Tobago, Singapore and Jamaica.’
‘In all cases, it was theft out of rooms, one related to a credit card being stolen, the other a wedding band – which has subsequently been found and is in the process of being closed – and the remaining cases are currency being stolen.’
‘Prior to the official start of the tournament, two Jamaican players, sharing a room, both had money taken that wasn’t stored in a safe.’
Annandale stated that a specific investigation team has been tasked with the case. This team is collaborating with hotel management and security, diligently following the necessary procedures, gathering statements, examining CCTV footage, and analysing proximity card reader data.
As of now, no suspects have been identified in connection with the incidents.
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Picture: Netball South Africa