The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has arrested a key suspect in the alleged R14.9 million precious stones theft case, marking a significant breakthrough in the investigation.The suspect, arrested on Friday, is being held at Edenvale police holding cells and is expected to appear in court on Monday.IPID confirmed that Tactical Response Team members are still searching for two other suspects, with arrests planned for the coming weeks.

The case centres on a February 2023 raid in Killarney, Johannesburg, where officials allegedly searched a private residence without a warrant and seized stones valued at nearly R15 million.Six individuals, including three EMPD officers, a Gauteng Traffic Police officer, a JMPD VIP Unit officer, and a private businessman, are implicated.Corruption charges are pending due to alleged jurisdictional violations and failure to record seized items.IPID also questioned the involvement of non-investigative officers, highlighting procedural irregularities.Testimonies from the Madlanga Commission revealed the operation's planning, with stones later sold for a fraction of their value.The investigation continues, with more arrests anticipated as officers pursue remaining suspects.