Tsakani – EMPD Intervention Unit officers, working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, arrested seven men on Wednesday morning for hijacking, kidnapping and illegal mining.

The suspects were apprehended during a crime prevention and illegal mining operation in the Eastern Region.

According to the EMPD, officers came under fire as they approached the area.

The suspects fled on foot in different directions, but officers managed to arrest three for illegal immigration and two for illegal mining. They also confiscated five shovels, three picks and a water pump used for mining.

During the operation, officers spotted a suspicious white Isuzu bakkie with three occupants. When approached, the vehicle sped off, prompting a high-speed chase that ended at Vlakfontein Road.

One of the men inside the vehicle claimed he had been hijacked and kidnapped by the other two suspects. A search of the bakkie led to the discovery of an unlicensed firearm, ammunition, a knife and gloves believed to have been used in the crimes.

All seven suspects were arrested and now face charges of kidnapping, hijacking, illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act. They are expected to appear in the Tsakani Magistrate’s Court soon.

Despite the armed confrontation, no law enforcement officers were injured. Authorities commended the operation as a successful demonstration of coordination and swift response.

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