Police in Rustenburg have made a significant breakthrough following the arrest of two suspects, aged 46 and 49, linked to a hijacking and kidnapping incident yesterdag, April 3.

According to police spokesperson Constable Thuto Bobelo, a 38-year-old truck driver was en route to deliver diesel worth more than R30 000 to a depot in Rustenburg. Upon arrival, the driver alighted from the truck and was approached by an unknown male who appeared to be the person designated to assist him at the depot.

The situation quickly escalated when the suspect produced a firearm and ordered the driver back into the truck. The victim complied, and the armed suspect entered the vehicle with him. At the same time, two other suspects also boarded the truck, and the victim was forced to drive off with all three suspects inside.

Without the suspects knowing, the victim managed to activate a panic button, which triggered an alert received by members of the Cash-In-Transit (CIT) Task Team. Acting swiftly on the information, the team traced the vehicle to Ramochana near Rustenburg.

Upon arrival, members found the victim still inside the truck with the suspects. One suspect fled the scene, while the remaining two suspects were arrested on the spot.

The two suspects have been charged with hijacking and kidnapping and are expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on April 7.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the team for their swift response and professionalism in averting further harm. He reiterated that individuals involved in such serious crimes will face the full might of the law.