From Viral Clip to Arrest: How Social Media Helped Catch a Phone Snatcher

A Few Seconds, a Stolen Phone and a Viral Moment

It took just a few seconds for a casual night out in Brooklyn, Pretoria, to turn into a viral crime scene. A cellphone smash-and-grab outside the popular Kream restaurant, captured on video, quickly spread across social media, sparking outrage and an online manhunt that ultimately helped authorities track down the suspect.

The now widely shared clip shows a woman walking up the stairs into the restaurant while her friend records behind her. In a flash, a man darts in, grabs the phone and runs. The brazenness of the act struck a nerve, especially in a city where phone snatching has become an all-too-familiar experience.

Online Sleuths Step In

South Africans didn’t just watch, they got involved. Social media users began sharing screenshots, slowing down the footage and comparing outfits. Before long, users linked the suspect to Nobert Zapambela, allegedly living in Johannesburg’s Maboneng precinct.

Screenshots of an Instagram account believed to belong to him began circulating, showing photos of a man wearing the same clothes seen in the video, partying at clubs. The speed at which the online community pieced together the clues highlighted how crime and social media are increasingly colliding in South Africa.

Video: Suspect being arrested. @MTshwaku @JoburgMPD https://t.co/CrWWdzSFa2 pic.twitter.com/fnSUzb6W6P

Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) December 30, 2025

Suspect Located in Hillbrow

Following the public identification, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s Tactical Response Unit traced and located the suspect in Hillbrow. Videos circulating online show him being restrained and questioned after being caught, scenes that have sparked mixed reactions about public anger and the risks of vigilante-style justice.

According to anti-crime activist Yusuf Abramjee, the suspect had previously been arrested and was out on bail in connection with another Brooklyn case.

♦️BREAKING NEWS♦️

The well-known criminal seen in a circulating video smash-and-grabbing a cellphone has been located by the JMPD TRU in Hillbrow. Law enforcement action is underway.

Lawlessness will not be tolerated!!#FestiveTshelaThupa #BuyaMthethoManjeNamhlanje pic.twitter.com/alXih6W6i0

COJ People’s MMC Public Safety (@PublicSafetyMMC) December 30, 2025

Charges to Be Opened

EFF councillor and MMC for Environment and Agriculture Management, Obakeng Ramabodu, confirmed that cases of robbery, theft and assault will be opened. A formal case is being lodged at Brooklyn Police Station against Zapambela, who was allegedly seen fleeing the scene in a silver Toyota Corolla with registration HD 23 TZ GP.

It is understood that the latest victim has now officially laid a charge.

Public Reaction: Relief, Anger and Hope

Public response has been loud and emotional. Many welcomed the arrest, expressing hope that repeat offenders will finally face consequences. Others questioned how someone allegedly out on bail was able to continue operating so openly.

In a country where cellphone theft is often dismissed as “petty crime” despite its real danger, this case has reignited debate about repeat offenders, bail conditions and everyday safety.

For now, one thing is clear: a few seconds of video, combined with collective public action, turned a stolen phone into an arrest and a warning to would-be thieves that South Africans are watching.

{Source: IOL}

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