The Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s Freeway Unit arrested three men on 25 May for allegedly snatching a cell phone from another man in Midrand.
The department’s spokesperson, Xolani Fihla said the arrest took place while the Freeway Unit was conducting a roadside check on the N1 North and New Road onramp. JMPD officers were approached by a male around 2pm, who said that his cell phone was forcefully snatched by a man while he stood in a queue at a petrol station.
Fihla said it was alleged that the victim saw the man that robbed him get into a white Toyota Etios which had two other male occupants in it. “He then took his vehicle and followed the Etios…The victim saw the officers and drew their attention, showing them the suspect’s vehicle that was travelling in the northern direction of the freeway.”
The officers managed to stop the suspect’s vehicle which then led to the suspects attempting to dispose of the cell phone and damaging it in the process. “The victim pointed out that the cell phone belongs to him. He also identified the suspect that had robbed him.
“All three suspects between the ages of 22 and 31 were arrested and taken to Midrand Police Station. On arrival it was discovered that the vehicle used as a getaway car in committing the crime also had false registration plates.”
Fihla concluded that the suspects were charged with common robbery, fraud and malicious damage to property.
Constable Eliot Mabulane, spokesperson for the Midrand Police Station, confirmed that a docket was opened and they will determine if the suspects are linked to other robberies that have taken place on the N1 within that area. “The South African Police Service appreciates the swift response of the arrest of the suspects. The suspects will soon appear in court to answer to all allegations.”
Details: Johannesburg Metro Police Department
011 375 5911; Midrand Police Station 011 347 1600.
