Trigger happy hijackers arrested in Hendrina

According to a media statement issued by the Provincial Commissioner’s office the suspects, aged 30 and 31, allegedly hijacked a White Toyota Legend 45 in Rockdale, Middleburg on Friday, 21 October.

According to information, after the vehicle was allegedly hijacked, members of Middelburg K9 pursued the vehicle which fled to Hendrina.

Members from Hendrina SAPS were alerted and they spotted the vehicle which matched the description of the alleged hijacked vehicle.

The joint efforts by both K9 members and Hendrina members forced the suspects to abandon the vehicle and seek refuge in the bushes whilst firing some shots to the police.

Police had to protect themselves returned fire.

During the gun battle, one police official was shot on his left arm and one community member could not be spared from the flying bullets, a female was also strike on her right hand side of the breast.

However both suspects were apprehended and a firearm recovered as well as the alleged hijacked vehicle.

The injured police official and the community member were transported to different hospitals with an ambulance.

The arrested suspects are expected to appear before Hendrina Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 October, on two counts of attempted murder, possession of suspected stolen vehicle as well as possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

They will further appear before Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on the hijacking charge.