A police investigation is under way after approximately 15 men allegedly broke into multiple business units in Selby, Johannesburg, and stole election-related materials belonging to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).
The incident reportedly occurred around midnight on Friday, 9 October 2026, at a property situated at the corner of Prop and John streets in Selby, south of Johannesburg.
According to preliminary information, the suspects allegedly targeted approximately 10 business units at the property. One of the affected premises reportedly prints election materials for the IEC, and the group allegedly took the electoral paperwork before fleeing the scene.
Security guards reportedly witnessed the break-in and immediately alerted the police.
The incident has prompted an investigation to establish exactly what was stolen, identify the suspects and determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police Investigate Theft of Election Materials
Members of the police’s Johannesburg Central Local Criminal Record Centre were dispatched to the scene to conduct forensic investigations.
The National Crime Scene Management Team was also activated, while the provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management Team was reportedly expected to attend the scene.
Investigators are working to establish the full extent of the break-in and identify those responsible. The precise nature and quantity of the stolen election materials have not been confirmed in the available preliminary information.
It also remains unclear whether any other property or equipment was stolen from the affected business units during the incident.
Investigation Under Way
The break-in comes as South Africa prepares for the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for 4 November 2026. The IEC has been working on preparations for the elections, including arrangements for voting stations and election personnel.
However, there is currently no confirmed information establishing whether the theft will affect election preparations or whether the stolen paperwork included ballots or other specific electoral documents.
The motive behind the incident has also not been established, and the identities of the suspects remain unknown.
Police investigations are continuing as authorities work to determine what was taken and trace those allegedly involved in the break-in.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
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