In a week in which City crime-fighting officers made 527 arrests for various transgressions, its Metro Police officers also foiled two hijackings by the same suspects just minutes apart.
On Sunday afternoon, 16 August, an off-duty Metro Police officer witnessed a hijacking in progress at the intersection of Sheffield and Govan Mbeki Roads in Crossroads. He immediately called for backup and activated his vehicle’s blue lights in an attempt to deter the suspects.
Additional officers quickly arrived on the scene, forcing the suspects to abandon the vehicle and flee into a nearby informal settlement. During the pursuit, one of the suspects pointed a firearm at officers before disappearing between the shacks.
Moments later, the suspects returned to Sheffield Road and attempted hijacking another vehicle. Officers responded swiftly, resulting in the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect.
He was expected to face charges, including attempted murder, pointing of a firearm, hijacking, resisting arrest and possession of a stolen cellphone. He was handed over to Philippi East police for further processing and investigation.
Two vehicles, a black Mitsubishi Xpander and a silver-grey Renault Triber, were recovered and transported to the Bellville South Vehicle Impound.
Brazen or desperate
“These hijackers were either incredibly brazen or desperate to try and carry out their criminal act for a second time. It’s imperative that the investigation includes checking whether they might have been trying to flee another crime scene at the time. I want to commend our officers for a job well done – not only for their speedy response to the initial incident, but also for following up and ensuring the arrest of a suspect, who will hopefully lead investigators to his accomplices,” said the City’s Mayco member for Safety and Security JP Smith.
Weekly City enforcement arrests top 500
In general enforcement efforts over the past week Metro Police officers made 127 arrests and recovered eight stolen and/or hijacked vehicles, six firearms and various quantities of drugs.
Their Law Enforcement counterparts made 316 arrests and issued 13 828 notices.
Traffic officers recorded 84 arrests, 72 for driving under the influence of alcohol, four for reckless/negligent driving and eight for other offences. Officers also issued 56 200 fines, executed 2 098 warrants of arrest and impounded 16 public transport vehicles.
Weekend emergencies logged
The City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded 2 782 calls for assistance over the weekend.
The Public Emergency Communication Centre also logged 151 cases of physical assault, 77 domestic violence incidents and 85 road accidents – 20 of these involving pedestrians.
The public is reminded to report emergencies or any suspicious and/or criminal activities by calling the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 or logging by-law and traffic-related complaints using the Safety and Security add-on to the City App.
