An alleged hijacker that went of a robbing spree with a
bread truck this morning (Saturday) was arrested in KwaNobuhle by two members
of the Port Elizabeth Anti-Gang Unit on their way to work.
The constables were driving in Makapa Street, KwaNobuhle
when community members stopped and alerted them of a bread truck being robbed
further down the road. The constables made a U-turn and headed towards the
alleged robbery. As they neared the shop, they noticed the truck driving off.
The truck was stopped and upon questioning the driver that was still seated in
the truck, they realised that something was amiss and ordered the driver and
suspect to alight from the truck. A 9mm pistol was then found on the truck
floor.
According to police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, further
information revealed that the suspect first robbed the truck driver and his two
passengers at gunpoint in Nyanda Street, KwaNobuhle. “His two passengers
managed to run away. The driver was then forced to drive to eight other shops
and at the ninth shop, the suspect went inside and robbed the owner of his two
cell phones and cash,” Naidu said. “A substantial amount of cash, one round of
ammunition and the two cell phones were found in his possession,” she added.
“The owner of the firearm opened a case of theft. He alleged
that his son had access to the house and took the firearm from the safe when he
(the owner) was not home last night. His son is not yet arrested as he is
evading police,” Naidu explained.
The suspect is detained on a charge of truck jacking, armed
robbery and the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. He will appear
in the KwaNobuhle Magistrates Court on Monday.
Acting Mount Road Cluster Commander, Brig. Thandiswe Kupiso,
commended the community for their alertness and quick reaction. “We need the
community to be the eyes and ears of the police as we collectively fight crime.
Do not turn a blind eye and give criminals the power to invade your space.
Community support and participation is integral in ensuring safe and secure
communities,” Kupiso added.
Source: SAPS media statement
