A 36-year-old suspect was arrested by the Nelspruit Flying Squad in the early hours of Friday, April 17, following a high-speed vehicle pursuit in the Mbombela CBD.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Thulisile Magagula, officers were conducting routine patrols on Samora Machel drive near the High Court at approximately 03:30 when they noticed a white bakkie turning off of the Kaapsehoop Road.

“Upon attempting to stop the vehicle, the driver sped off, ignoring police instructions. A chase ensued, during which the suspect drove at high speed and allegedly disregarded traffic signals.

The pursuit ended near Valencia when the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed,” she said.

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Investigations revealed that the vehicle was fitted with false Mpumalanga number plates, and that it is actually registered in Gauteng.

It had been reported stolen in Nigel.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and is facing charges related to possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

Police indicated that additional theft-related cases linked to the suspect are under investigation in Springs.

He is expected to appear at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court soon.