4 arrested as hijacking probe exposes criminal den in Crown Gardens
A suspected drug deal turned violent in Ridgeway, prompting a multi-unit operation that led to the seizure of drugs, weapons and stolen goods.
The JMPD, in collaboration with the SAPS and various specialised units, has successfully apprehended four suspects following a violent incident and the discovery of a significant criminal den in Crown Gardens.
On January 7, at approximately 06:47, JMPD K9 Unit officers responded to a report of a hijacking and shooting at Regal Place, Ridgeway.
Upon arrival at 06:54, officers discovered a male victim lying on a patio with three gunshot wounds. While being treated by Gauteng EMS, the victim alleged he had been hijacked and his friend kidnapped.
During a tactical patrol of the area, officers intercepted the hijacked Silver Toyota Corolla Quest on Shannon Road.
The occupant was identified as a friend, who led officers to a residence on Tilrae Drive, Crown Gardens.
Further investigation and interviews revealed that the incident was not a random hijacking, but rather a suspected drug transaction that had turned violent.
A multi-disciplinary team, including JMPD K9, Tactical Response Unit (TRU), and CCTV units, alongside SAPS Westrand K9, Benoni K9, and Booysens Detectives, converged on the Crown Gardens property.
Four suspects, aged between 31 and 72, were arrested and detained at Booysens SAPS.
During the search of the premises, officers recovered an extensive cache of illegal items, including four replica firearms (one rifle, three pistols) and a significant amount of live ammunition (12-gauge shotgun rounds, .45mm, 9mm, and .38 Special rounds). Quantities of crystal meth, Mandrax, dagga (32g), and cocaine (45g) were found.
Large quantities of medications, including Ritalin, Bioplus, and various prescription tablets, as well as a bag of gold jewellery, five cellphones, old RSA coins, and an SAPS badge, were also recovered.
A Silver Toyota Corolla Quest and a White VW Caddy bakkie were seized and booked in at the SAPS Aeroton vehicle pound for further processing.
The suspects face multiple charges, including attempted murder, possession of live ammunition, possession of imitation firearms, possession of suspected narcotics, and possession of stolen goods.
The JMPD commends the swift response of all role players involved. This operation highlights their commitment to removing illegal firearms and narcotics from the streets to ensure the safety of the residents.
