Common robbery investigation involving pirate taxi launched by Elsburg SAPS

The Elsburg police are currently investigating a case of common robbery in Buhle Park and its surrounding areas involving criminals under the guise of taxi drivers in a white Toyota Quantum.

A victim of common robbery alleged he signalled a white Toyota Quantum near the Sasol garage in Buhle Park recently.

As he entered the taxi, he found the driver and two occupants and assumed all was well.

“The victim’s cellphone allegedly rang and as he tried to answer it, the passenger sitting next to the driver grabbed and strangled him,” said Const Daphney Phooko, communications officer for the Elsburg police.

“He then took his cellphone and bag.”

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The suspects made a stop at a petrol station in Klippoortjie where they withdrew cash from the victim’s bank account and proceeded to an unknown house in Windmill Park, Boksburg, where they allegedly planned to drop him off.

According to Phooko, the victim stated the plans suddenly changed as they reached the house in Windmill Park as there were people flagging down the taxi.

Instead, he was dropped off in Groeneweide, along with the other occupant whom he realised was a victim of the same crimes too.

They were left stranded with no cellphones and no money.

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“We have experienced several incidents concerning this white Toyota Quantum travelling to and from Buhle Park and Germiston,” said Phooko.

“The community of Elsburg is warned not to catch taxis at random spots due to the increase of pirate taxis in the area.

“They must go straight to the taxi rank where they will find proper taxis that will take them to their desired destinations.”

The suspects are still at large, but the Elsburg police have subsequently opened an investigation into the matter.

“Be safe and avoid being a victim of such crimes,” Phooko added.

“Let’s report illegal activities witnessed to create a crime-free area.”