Court date on the cards for suspected fraudster

17 March 2025

The suspect was arrested in the early hours of Sunday morning in Parow. He was in possession of 37 stolen bank cards, 17 cellphones and a fraudulent driving licence. He was one of 397 suspects arrested by the City’s enforcement agencies in the past week.

Just before 02:00 on Sunday, 16 March, traffic officers on patrol along Voortrekker Road in Parow spotted a car without number plates.

They stopped the driver, and took him into custody for possession of a fraudulent driving licence. While driving the vehicle to the Parow police station, one of the officers noticed a black bag on the passenger seat, containing 37 bank cards, 17 cellphones and more than R17 000 in cash. The driver was charged with fraud and the possession of possible stolen goods. The car too, was impounded.

‘This was a very good arrest – well done to the officers for their handling of the situation. This incident is the latest in a long list of examples where seemingly benign transgressions have taken people from the driving seat to a cell. Apart from the fraud charges, the suspect also faces additional charges relating to his fake driving licence. This incident should also serve as a reminder to us all that fraudsters are very active, and how quickly one can fall victim. Please always be alert of your surroundings when driving and visiting an ATM. If you suspect any breach of your bank account, please act immediately by reporting it to your bank, but also the police,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

In general enforcement in the past week, the Traffic Service made 40 arrests – 17 for driving under the influence of alcohol, five for  reckless and negligent driving and 18 for other offences. Officers also recorded 54 893 offences, impounded 278 public transport vehicles and executed 1 896 warrants of arrest.

Their Law Enforcement counterparts arrested 260 suspects and issued 8 554 notices, while Metro Police officers made 97 arrests  and issued 4 533 fines for traffic and by-law transgressions.

The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 697 incidents, including 89 assault cases, 50 domestic violence incidents and 41 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents.

Residents are reminded to report criminal activities by phoning the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone and 107 from a landline.

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office