Police arrest suspect in connection with hijacking a courier van in Sandton

Upon getting reports of the hijacking, members of the National Traffic Police, Midrand Police, Highway Patrol, the SSU Anti-Hijacking Unit, and the Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing responded, sourcing the van and arresting the driver.

Comfort Makhanya

23 hours ago

The Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing was quickly deployed and spotted the hijacked Iveco van at the Allandale and R101 intersection, heading towards the Gautrain Station. Photo: Department of Community Safety page

A male suspect was arrested in Midrand on April 25 for possession of a hijacked vehicle, an unlicensed firearm, and ammunition.

This arrest was part of an operation involving the National Traffic Police (NTP), Midrand Police, Highway Patrol (HP), the SSU Anti-Hijacking Unit, and the Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing.

Law enforcement officers responded to a call regarding the hijacking of an Iveco courier van in Sandton. Midrand station commander Brigadier David Molefe Tsotsotso said: “The driver of the white Iveco was blocked by a white Polo TSI and a white BMW. [The hijackers] managed to escape, taking the driver [of the Iveco] in one of the suspect vehicles.”

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The driver was subsequently dropped off in Glen Austin.

Molefe said a lookout was issued on the police radio. The Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing quickly deployed and spotted the stolen Iveco van at the intersection of Allandale and the R101, heading towards the Gautrain Station, driving at high speed.

Upon noticing the officers, the suspect, driving the Iveco, attempted to flee, but crashed into a street light on Swart Street during the chase.

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“They gave chase, and managed to stop the vehicle at the corner of Brand and Swart streets, in President Park,” said Molefe.

After the crash, NTP, the SSU Anti-Hijacking Unit, and police officers conducted a tactical takedown, resulting in the arrest of the driver at the scene.

The driver was searched and found in possession of a Canik pistol, loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, as well as one empty 9mm cartridge with its serial number removed.

He was then arrested, and is being detained at Midrand Police Station. The stolen Iveco van was recovered, and upon inspection, officers discovered three laptops and six TV sets inside the vehicle.

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