POTCHEFSTROOM: Two suspects, Katlego Vincent Matlapeng (29) and Kgomotso Seolwane (28) appeared before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court today for an alleged hijacking and being in possession of suspected stolen vehicle cases.

The court appearance stems after their apprehension by Rustenburg police on Monday, 23 September 2019, at 22:30 on the R30 road, close to Derby. Police responded quickly after receiving information from a vehicle tracking company of a possible hijacked vehicle that was travelling on the road. The vehicle was traced, intercepted and the duo arrested. The police also recovered a toy gun that was inside a bag in the vehicle.

After conducting initial investigations it was determined that the vehicle, a blue Suzuki SUV, was allegedly hijacked just about three hours earlier in Lichtenburg on the same night at about 19:00. A 57-year-old male victim was allegedly travelling near the weigh bridge and stopped at the railway crossing in Lichtenburg, when he was approached by two suspects who pointed him with a firearm. His vehicle was forcefully taken.

The duo will remain in custody until their second court appearance on 2 October 2019 for a formal bail application.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, congratulated the members for their speedily response that lead to this success.

She cautioned members of the community to be vigilant, especially when ravelling at night in rural areas. When approaching stop signs/robots/intersections, always keep a look out for people loitering around your car or for any sudden activities around your car. Do not pick up hitchikers, particularly when you drive alone; she said.

Source: South African Police Service