NATIONAL NEWS - Five men have been arrested in connection with the theft of property from Hodisa Technical School in Bloemfontein, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State said.

The suspects, aged between 21 and 34, were found in possession of stolen air conditioners, copper pipes, a Bosch grinder and a Bosch drill.

“The arrest took place on Wednesday after police had received a tip-off about a group of males grinding stolen property at a house in the Rocklands area of Bloemfontein,” the SAPS said in a statement.

The arrests were made in a joint operation between Kagisanong police and the Bloemfontein Flying Squad.

Upon arrival, officers discovered the suspects actively grinding the air conditioners and cutting copper pipes, which were later identified as having been stolen from the school.

“The theft at Hodisa Technical School occurred in the early hours of Wednesday. Suspects broke into the school's Technical Lab, making off with the items recovered by police,” the police said while also urging communities to work with law enforcement to prevent similar crimes.

Additionally, the investigating team is searching for more suspects allegedly involved in recent school burglaries, resulting in the theft and damage of property intended for student learning.

Anyone with information regarding the case or the whereabouts of other suspects or stolen property is encouraged to contact Kagisanong Police Detective Sergeant Teboho Monnye on 082 465 5945.

Anonymous tips can also be reported via the police crime stop line at 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.

The five suspects are expected to appear in court soon for possession of suspected stolen property. More arrests are imminent. – SAnews.gov.za

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