Boy, 15, arrested after allegedly driving stolen vehicle in Mthatha

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested after police tracked down a vehicle allegedly stolen from a garage in KwaLindile, near Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape, following a reported theft in KwaLindile locality.

The vehicle was allegedly stolen from a garage in the same locality at about 2am on Wednesday, October 14.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), members of the Mthatha Central Police Station Crime Prevention Unit were alerted to the theft and tracked down the vehicle before spotting it near Mthatha Ultra City, where it was immobilised.

The teenager was immediately arrested.

Teenager transferred to youth centre

Police spokesperson Captain Welile Matyolo said the relevant procedures for a minor in conflict with the law were followed after the arrest.

“A probation officer was consulted and relevant documents in respect of children who are in conflict with the law were also completed,” Matyolo said.

The 15-year-old is expected to appear before a children's court to face the charge of unlawful possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.

District commissioner expresses shock

OR Tambo District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana expressed disappointment over the teenager's arrest, saying a child of his age should be focused on education and building a future.

"It is so shocking that a minor who is supposed to be at school being moulded for a brighter future is found in conflict with the law," Modishana said.

The district commissioner expressed concern about the circumstances surrounding the arrest, as police continue to deal with crime in the area.

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