Two suspects who are believed to have been participating in yesterday’s Cape Town SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge have been arrested after allegedly cutting open fellow runners’ bags and stealing their cellphones.
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According to the City, criminals use every opportunity available to them, and Sunday’s race was no exception.
‘Metro police on patrol were approached by some of the race contenders, informing them of two female contestants who were allegedly cutting open fellow race contenders’ bags and stealing cellphones,’ said Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith.
‘More than eight persons then reported their phones having been stolen.’
Once receiving descriptions of the culprits, law enforcement officers searched the area and identified the two suspects before taking them in for questioning.
‘In their possession, officers found three different IDs, two wallets, and two cellphones with their SIM cards already removed.’
‘The women were unable to account for being in possession of the items. When a complainant arrived at the police station, she was able to identify her cellphone. Another complainant was on arrival at the station able to identify the suspect as the person who had committed the theft.’
Smith said both women were arrested at the Sea Point Police Station on charges of theft and possession of stolen property.
‘Residents are reminded, when attending events or public gatherings, to always ensure they keep close guard of their personal belongings.’
Meanwhile, Ethiopian Hiyane Lama claimed her maiden victory in the 10km road race, winning the event in 33:42 on a wet and chilly morning.
She beat fellow Ethiopian Selam Gebre to the post by two seconds in a dramatic sprint for the finish.
Former SPAR Grand Prix winner Glenrose Xaba was third, finishing the race in a time of 34.05.
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook