A vehicle-hijacking suspect was swiftly apprehended in Bellville after a rapid response by SJC Security Services, although the case was ultimately not pursued by the complainant.

An SJC Armed Response Officer was flagged down by a motorist who had just been hijacked. Acting immediately, the officer spotted the stolen vehicle travelling along De La Haye Avenue and gave chase. When the vehicle came to a stop, the suspect attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended.

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Additional SJC Security Officers responded to secure the scene and the suspect was handed over to Bellville police for further investigation. The stolen vehicle was recovered and no injuries were reported.

Complainant declines to pursue charge

According to Sgt Charles Neelse of Bellville Police Station, while an arrest was initially effected, no formal booking into custody followed. The complainant subsequently indicated that he did not wish to pursue the matter and, as a result, no case was registered on the police system or docket. The complainant’s vehicle was returned to him.

Colleagues at the station had begun taking statements, and the vehicle was to have been booked in for forensic fingerprinting, but the process did not proceed further after the complainant withdrew.

Community partnership

SJC Security Services said it remains committed to protecting communities through proactive patrols, rapid armed response and close cooperation with law enforcement.