GQEBERHA – A suspect was arrested in New Brighton by the SAPS Crime Combating Unit (CCU) of Nelson Mandela Bay, in co-operation with the SAPS Airwing (helicopter) on Wednesday, 26 November. The suspect was found in possession of two firearms, a mobile phone signal jamming device, and a hijacked vehicle.
According to SAPS spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge, this followed the CCU members following up information that a hijacked white Isuzu bakkie, possibly linked to other serious crimes such as robberies and hijackings, was seen driving in the direction of New Brighton.
“A SAPS Airwing helicopter was brought in to assist in searching for this vehicle in the New Brighton area. The vehicle was spotted in Gqamlana Street, New Brighton and, with close contact with the members on the ground, the vehicle was recovered and a 38-year-old suspect was arrested,” Beetge said.
He added that the suspect was found outside the vehicle and carrying two bags with him. “On searching the vehicle (Isuzu bakkie), two firearms: A .38 special revolver and a 9mm pistol, as well as a mobile phone signal jamming device were found and confiscated.”
Beetge said the bakkie allegedly had false number plates fitted to it but was confirmed to be hijacked earlier this month in Ikamvelihle and is suspected to have been used in the commission of other serious crimes in the Nelson Mandela Bay area.
“The vehicle was confiscated and sent for further forensic analysis,” he said.
The 38-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal possession of a signal jamming device and possession of a hijacked vehicle.
Beetge added that further investigations are being conducted and SAPS are hoping to make more arrests soon.
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