Two undocumented Zimbabwean nationals, ages 31 and 34, were found to have four
mobile tower batteries in their car when Tonga SAPS agents arrested them in
Mangweni, not far from Komatipoort. The suspects were apprehended on Tuesday, May
16, at around 18:00.

Unreliable mobile networks and load shedding are two of the biggest issues the nation
is currently facing. Law enforcement officials have observed that, despite attempts by
the state and the corporate sector to resolve the matter, perpetrators continue to
jeopardize these initiatives.

The success that was achieved emanates from reports that have indicated that the
Police at Tonga received information about suspicious activities at the tower. Upon
police arrival at the premises, members noticed that the place was locked. At that
moment, a concerned citizen immediately approached the police vehicle and indicated
to them that residents were concerned about a white Nissan Hardbody bakkie which
was still at the premises (of the tower). The men and women in Blue instructed its driver
to stop but instead, the said vehicle sped off before it came to a halt in the nearby
bushes.

Thereafter, two occupants are said to have abandoned the vehicle and run on foot.
Police managed to corner both of them and when searching inside the said bakkie, four
mobile tower batteries were recovered.

Both suspects were arrested and charged with possession of suspected stolen
properties after failing to avail documents that permits them to possess the tower
batteries. Another charge for contravention of the Immigration Act was added against
the two suspects after it was discovered that they did not have valid documentation that
permits them to be in South Africa.

On Thursday, May 18, the suspects are scheduled to appear in Nkomazi Magistrate’s
Court to answer to the aforementioned allegations as well as those of damage to critical
infrastructure.