GQEBERHA – SAPS efforts to curb trio crimes paid off when a 37-year-old suspect was arrested yesterday afternoon, 13 May 2021 in Kwadwesi and a hijacked vehicle and parts of another hijacked vehicle were found at a house in Dano Street in Govan Mbeki.

At about 15:00, on the mentioned date, Nelson Mandela District Truck jacking Task Team members assisted by Crime Intelligence Unit and Vehicle Identification Section (VIS) swooped in on the house. The premises was searched and a white Nissan NP200 bakkie, reportedly hijacked in Gelvandale in March 2021, was found on the premises. Also parts of a Ford Bantam bakkie (entire engine and the interior of the bakkie) was found hidden inside the house. The Bantam bakkie was reported hijacked in Bethesldorp in April 2021.

The suspect, who is the owner of the house, was detained on a charge of possession of suspected stolen property. Additional charges may be added as the investigation unfolds. Investigators will also attempt to link the suspect to other cases of vehicle hijackings committed within the metro.

The Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Brigadier Luntu Ngubelanga, reiterated that vehicle hijackings are a concern and every effort will be made to crack these syndicates operating in the metro. ‘Our operations are directed at reducing vehicle hijackings and clamping down on those involved in these crimes. We appeal to the communities to report any suspicious activity in their areas,’ stated Brig Ngubelanga.

Source: South Africa Police Service