Former cop among two arrested in Eden Park paving-brick thefts

Two men, including a former police officer, were arrested in Eden Park on Thursday, 24 September 2026, after an investigation by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) uncovered the illegal removal and resale of municipal paving bricks.

Tip-off leads to arrests

EMPD Community Liaison Unit officers moved on the suspects following a tip‑off from community members. The suspects, aged 23 and 54, were handcuffed in Eden Park after residents apprehended a man allegedly removing paving bricks in Datsun Park.

Evidence and interrogations

EMPD spokesperson Kelebogile Thepa said the man who was apprehended led officers to more than 10 properties where municipal bricks had been sold for R1.50 each.

“During questioning, the suspect led officers to more than 10 properties where stolen municipal bricks had been sold for R1.50 each.”

Thepa said that residents who had bought the bricks believed they came from a second‑hand site or dumping area, and that they cooperated with law enforcement by voluntarily returning the material.

“Residents admitted buying the bricks under the impression they came from a second‑hand site or dumping area, but cooperated fully with law enforcement and voluntarily returned the material.”

Accomplice and charges

The investigation traced an alleged accomplice, identified in the report as a former police officer, who was found in possession of municipal bricks. Both men were arrested and charged with tampering with essential infrastructure, theft of municipal property and possession of suspected stolen goods.

According to Thepa, the pair are being held at Eden Park Police Station and are expected to appear in court soon.

“They remain in custody at Eden Park Police Station and are expected to appear in court soon.”

Community response

The EMPD commended the Eden Park community for its role in exposing the scheme and recovering municipal property.

“Community cooperation remains vital in protecting public assets and ensuring municipal infrastructure benefits all residents,” the department said.