Suspects arrested in 130-year-old home in Verulam

Two suspects were arrested by members of Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) at a home they gained forced entry into on the corner of Moss and Iron Street in Verulam – Kwazulu Natal a short while ago (Tuesday).

A neighbor noticed two men breaking a window and forcing in the burglar bars. He immediately contacted the RUSA Operations Center for assistance. Reaction Officers arrived on the scene at approximately 10:47 and surrounded the house trapping the suspects inside. Additional back-up was despatched to secured the 1100 square meter property to prevent the suspects from fleeing into a nearby bush alongside an active railway line.

On arrival of the owner, Officers penetrated the 130-year-old home. He explained that the house has been vacant for the past two years and had furniture and other valuables stored inside. After an extensive search of the nine bedrooms, Reaction Officers entered the ceiling of the 400 square meter residence. After a lengthy search, one (1) suspect was apprehended hiding behind a pillar. He was restrained and lowered down from the ceiling to Officers waiting on the ground.

The search continued for the second suspect who was spotted by the homeowner hiding in the basement which was being used as a storeroom. Reaction Officers entered and placed the suspect under arrest (video in comments) without incident.

The suspects, both South African males aged 23 and 31 are currently detained at SAPS Verulam.