A major breakthrough in the fight against organised crime has led to the arrest of five suspects linked to a truck hijacking syndicate operating across Gauteng.

The arrests were the result of a high-level, multi-disciplinary operation this afternoon, April 23.

The joint effort involved the Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, SAPS Counter Intelligence Investigation (Head Office), DPCI Gauteng Multi-Disciplinary Tracking Team, SAPS Gauteng TRT, SAPS Anti-Gang Unit, private security, and Tracker Connect.

Also read: Cloned local vehicle used in truck hijackings

According to intelligence reports, the suspects had been impersonating law enforcement officers, wearing SAPS and Traffic Police uniforms and using two vehicles to carry out hijackings.

Authorities were alerted while the suspects were in the act on the R25 Modderfontein Road.

Operational teams responded swiftly, intercepting the hijacked truck and the two vehicles used by the suspects.

One of the suspects attempted to flee into a nearby veld but was quickly apprehended.

The truck, which was transporting goods valued at approximately R5 million, was successfully recovered.

Also read: SAPS arrests suspects and recover stolen trucks and goods

The arrests unfolded as follows:

• In a Hyundai Accent, two individuals dressed in EMPD uniforms were arrested, and the kidnapped truck driver was rescued.

• In a Hyundai IX35, two more suspects wearing SAPS reflective jackets were taken into custody.

It was later confirmed that one of the suspects is a former JMPD officer.

Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspects can be linked to additional hijackings and other criminal activity across the province.