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Six computers were stolen during a midnight burglary at the provincial police headquarters in Mbombela on January 26. The incident remained unreported until January 29, when the media started inquiring about it.
Police Confirm the Burglary
Provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, confirmed the break-in, stating that cases of housebreaking and theft had been registered at the Nelspruit Police Station for investigation.
When questioned about why the burglary had not been immediately disclosed, Mdhluli cited overlapping priorities as the reason for the delay.
Senior Officers Were Away at National Police Day
Mdhluli explained that senior police officers were attending the National Police Day event in KwaZulu-Natal on January 27. Shortly after their return, more than 50 buses were torched in the Nkangala District, further diverting police resources.
“Our hands were full,” said Mdhluli, emphasizing that officers had been dealing with multiple high-priority cases at the time.
Burglary Follows Allegations of Police Misconduct
The break-in occurred just days after two senior police officers were charged with serious misconduct, reportedly linked to the illegal installation of CCTV cameras in the headquarters. These installations allegedly took place during the tenure of suspended provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela.
Manamela is facing multiple charges, brought forward by the office of the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola. However, the SAPS has refused to comment on the status of Manamela’s case, stating that it remains an internal employer-employee matter.
Investigations Ongoing
Police have not revealed whether the stolen computers contained sensitive information or if the burglary is connected to internal disputes within the police force. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have assured the public that efforts are underway to recover the stolen equipment and identify the culprits.
The incident raises serious concerns about security at the provincial headquarters, with questions being asked about how criminals managed to break into a highly secured police facility without immediate detection.
As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further updates from law enforcement regarding the burglary and any potential links to ongoing misconduct cases within the provincial police leadership.
