A MAN has been arrested for opening a false hijacking case by the Phoenix SAPS in February. The driver alleged he was driving his motor vehicle along Malandela Road in KwaMashu when he was blocked by four armed occupants. He told police the suspects hijacked him and they also took him away and later was dropped off.

The vehicle was later recovered in Greenwood Park area a few days later.

According to Colonel Thembeka Mbhele, through investigation, it appeared the same vehicle, a green Opel Astra, was allegedly involved in two accidents at Greenwood Park area and the driver fled the scenes in both instances.

“The victim was thoroughly questioned and he later admitted that he opened a false case to the police station. The police immediately arrested him and was charged with defeating the ends of justice. He appeared in the Phoenix Magistrates’ Court on 10 March and the case was remanded until 24 April for further investigation,” she said.

KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Bheki Langa said he wanted to send a strong message to those who come to police stations and open false cases.

“We cannot tolerate such behaviour from those people who waste police resources by opening false cases. Those who will be found will be dealt with accordingly and will be harshly prosecuted.”

Last year, two men were arrested and charged by Durban North SAPS for opening false hijacking cases.

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