Hijackings have long plagued Alexandra, with ehailing drivers often targeted by hijackers.

Police acknowledged that the problem is persistent, but recent arrests show progress in their efforts to dismantle syndicates operating in the community. Station Commander Brigadier Vusimuzi Ngubane confirmed that four suspects, believed to be linked to hijacking incidents, were arrested and taken into custody during intelligence driven operations on April 7.

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This was a needed breakthrough, especially after he had previously raised concerns about limited information they usually receive from people about criminal activities in the community. He explained that investigators rely on information from the community and complainants to address crime, including hijackings. “In Alexandra, we have a problem with hijackers targeting Uber and Bolt motorbikes. Every day we are experiencing the same problem. They are reporting hijackings.”

The arrests formed part of a broader strategy that focuses on gathering evidence, reaching out to hijacking victims, and ensuring suspects can be positively identified. This with an intent to collect enough evidence that can withstand scrutiny in court, but, even after the recent arrests, community frustration remains high.
On April 9, the Alexandra Community Policing Forum (CPF) raised concerns about suspects being arrested only to return to the streets shortly after. Interim chairperson Sibabalo Mgijima said the CPF can assist, but the responsibility ultimately lies with law enforcement. “We, as the CPF, can try, but the onus is on the police to deal with that. We can arrest and bring suspects to the police, but we, as the CPF, get tired of arresting a suspect today and tomorrow they are out.”

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Ngubane has acknowledged these frustrations, admitting that while police have a plan to deal with hijackings, it must be sharpened to deliver greater impact. He remains confident, however, that the police will eventually disrupt the syndicates.

Although the recent arrests, combined with ongoing investigations, signal that police might be closing in on those behind the crimes, the community still wants more.

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