SOUTH AFRICA STOLEN COMPUTERS FOUND IOL: Raid in Woodstock a 'great success'

By Niémah Davids

Police have arrested 11 people after an early morning raid in Woodstock on Friday that followed intensive investigations.

Dozens of onlookers gathered in Lower Main Road and traffic moved slowly as police raided a block of flats near Station Road, arresting 11 people and searching the flats.

Police spokesperson Hilton Malila, said police had received several tip-offs from the community about illegal drug trafficking at the premises in Davison Street, just off the Woodstock Lower Main Road.

"We executed the warrant at 6am and we are very happy with the outcome. It was a great success," said Malila.

Eleven people were arrested: seven were illegal immigrants, and the other four were allegedly in possession of stolen items, he said.

Malila told the Cape Argus that police seized computer equipment and dagga.

"This has been a haven for illegal activities for some time, and after an intense month-long investigation we are very happy," he said.

Malila said police believe the computer equipment seized were stolen during break-ins in the area in recent weeks.

"We suspect those arrested could be directly linked to crimes in the area," he said.

He said the block of flats was in a "poor condition" and "infested" with illegal immigrants.

As curious onlookers passed the scene, many agreed it had been a haven for illegal activities.

"This should have been done a very long time ago, I have to live nearby knowing these sickening activities were taking place," a passer-by said.

Another said police should find the owner of the building and take action against him.

"He allowed this to take place, the owners are the ones who should be thrown in jail".

Malila said Friday's raid was a joint operation involving South African Police Service (SAPS), Metro Police and the Department of Home Affairs.

He said the seven illegal immigrants were handed over to immigration officials and the four arrested for being in possession of stolen goods would appear in the Cape Town magistrate's court on Monday.