Jewellery Council reacts after suspected gang leader arrested
There's relief among shop owners at malls in and around Durban following the arrest of a man thought to be the kingpin behind a string of brazen robberies.
The suspect is accused of orchestrating at least three robberies at stores selling jewellery.
A recent operation led police to Umlazi's AA and BB sections where two people were arrested.
Officers also confiscated watches and expensive perfumes. The Jewellery Council of SA's Chris van Rensburg wants to see greater synergy between police and shop owners.
"The biggest challenge is the fact that there is a big secondary market for jewellery and that's why it stolen. It's not just an issue in Durban. Until, there's such a thing as a political will too sort out crime - I don't think much is going to change. It's becoming an easier target," he said.