Ravensmead residents are breathing a collective sigh of relief following the arrest of a smash-and-grab gang that had terrorised motorists in the area.
The arrests, which took place on Wednesday, have been widely celebrated on social media, with a video of the incident going viral. The footage shows the suspects lying face down on the pavement along Balvenie Avenue, a stark visual testament to the swift police action.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed the arrests, stating: “According to reports, incidents of smashing vehicles and grabbing of valuables from motor vehicles occurred early on Wednesday near the corners of 35th and Balvenie Avenue. Ravensmead police responded to the complaint, and we can confirm that two males have since been arrested.”
The suspects apprehended include an 18-year-old teenager arrested for robbery and a 35-year-old man arrested for possession of presumed stolen property. The arrests mark a significant victory for the community, which has long endured the scourge of smash-and-grab attacks at the intersection of 35th and Balvenie Avenue.
Subcouncil chairperson Franchesca Walker highlighted the ongoing problem and the impact on residents: “The suspects have targeted people daily on their way to work, and the impact on a motorist cannot be described. In addition to the loss of personal items, there is also trauma caused to the motorist.
"I have witnessed some of these attacks, and these youngsters just grab whatever they want and hurt people. We have had so many interventions at that intersection, and the councillors are really doing what they can to alert the motorists, but many of the residents know who the perpetrators are.”
Councillor Walker’s comments underscore the pervasive nature of the problem and the community's long-standing concerns. The daily targeting of commuters, the emotional distress caused by these violent robberies, and the seemingly futile attempts at intervention all paint a picture of a community struggling under the weight of persistent crime.
