KNYSNA NEWS - Two young men accused of spray-painting public and private property across Knysna, allegedly including a police vehicle, have appeared in court following their arrest.
Knysna detectives are investigating a case of malicious damage to property after a graffiti spree in Waterfront Drive and surrounding areas left walls, rubbish bins, signposts and other surfaces defaced with signature markings.
According to information gathered from police and affected businesses, the vandalism took place in the early hours of Thursday 21 April, when several areas - including the Astron garage in Waterfront Drive, and along the N2 and Main Road - were allegedly targeted.
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage reportedly captured the two suspects, aged 23 and 24, moving through the area carrying spray cans and marking public property.
In one video, one of the men can allegedly be seen spraying the side of a public rubbish bin.
The pair were also caught on camera at several private businesses, including convenience stores.
Their vehicle was subsequently identified with the assistance of private businesses, security company Allsound, Revive Knysna, and staff from both Astron service stations helping police trace the suspects.
Matters escalated when the pair allegedly returned to the Astron N2 garage later that same morning.
While two police members were inside the shop, the suspects were reportedly caught red-handed spraying a police vehicle with red paint.
Police immediately opened cases, leading to the arrest of both men.
A wall and public rubbish bin were among the confirmed damaged properties, while investigators continue to assess the full extent of the vandalism across town.
The accused appeared in court and the case was postponed to 14 May for further investigation. Both suspects were released on a warning.
Community members involved in helping identify the suspects have welcomed the arrests, saying the incident sends a strong message that vandalism and the destruction of public spaces will not be tolerated.
Calls have also been made for those responsible to clean and restore every wall, dustbin, signpost or other surface that was defaced during the graffiti spree.
Knysna detectives continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the case.
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