Atlas Security
A man who went for a walk along the beachfront in Summerstrand, Gqeberha on Saturday returned to his vehicle where two suspects were caught red-handed allegedly stealing his belongings.
Spokesperson for Atlas Security Ryan Morris says the complainant flagged down an Atlas Security vehicle when he noticed that the two men had smashed open his car window.
He says the Atlas officer called for backup and as they approached the scene, the suspects picked a peculiar route for an escape by running into the ocean.
Morris says three officers pursued the men and dragged them out of the water before handing him over to SAPS.
The incident happened in the parking lot on the corner of 6th Avenue and Marine Drive, which is a popular spot for bathers.
Earlier this week the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber raised the issue of escalating crime along the Gqeberha beachfront.
In a letter to Mayor Gary van Niekerk and SAPS District Commissioner Major General Vuyisile Ncata, the Chamber says its beachfront cluster had noted a recent significant increase in crime in the area.
This was exacerbated by the lack of visible policing and poor lighting in the area.
Chamber CEO Denise van Huyssteen said they are working with the Beachfront Safety Sector and Summerstrand Neighbourhood Watch to install cameras and improve the lighting in identified hotspot areas.
