Cape Town authorities recovered more than 80 stolen wheelie bins as well as crates and shopping trolleys in an operation focused on scrap collectors. Wheelie bins are being stolen at an alarming rate as it is an easy target, however for rate payers, it is costly to replace.

Last week, City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Officers recovered 82 wheelie bins, 167 crates, and seven shopping trolleys during the operations in various areas including Mitchells Plain, Philippi and Strand. They also issued a number of fines and arrested three suspects for possession of stolen property in Bokmakierie, Athlone. Currently, it costs an estimated R400 to replace a stolen wheelie bin.

In Mitchells Plain, the operation focused on a scrapyard situated in the Town Centre. Officers recovered 19 stolen wheelie bins, most of which could be traced back to their owners all over Mitchells Plain. They also confiscated two knives found during stop-and-search operations in Tafelsig.

In Philippi, officers recovered 40 wheelie bins and issued nearly R10 000 worth of fines for various traffic and by-law contraventions.

Law Enforcement spokesperson, assistant chief Neil Arendse said the objective was to apprehend scrap collectors who transport stolen goods in wheelie bins or shopping trolleys, but also to crack down on the theft of bins and trolleys.

“We want to appeal to residents to try and prevent their bins from being stolen by removing them from the street as soon as the refuse has been collected and by ensuring that the bins are secured, even on their property. If you’re at work, you could organise with a neighbour or someone else who you know will be at home during the day to keep your bin until you return,’ said Arendse.

The City appeals to residents to notify the Law Enforcement control room on 021 596 1999 if they spot anyone walking around with a wheelie bin in their neighbourhood. VOC