In true action movie style, the West Rand Cluster Police executed an arrest by out-witting criminals with excellent team work and communication skills on Tuesday.
A business robbery and theft of motor vehicle in Khutsong South Extension 2, Carletonville was reported. Shortly afterwards, a ‘Be on the lookout for’ (BOLO) was put out for the stolen vehicle. The suspects had robbed a store in the area, taking cigarettes and cash, and used the store’s delivery vehicle, a white Hyundai panel van, as a getaway car.
“It was suspected that the suspects had fled down the N12,” said Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police’s spokesperson.
Officers from the adjoining police stations – Westonaria, Bekkersdal and Fochville, plus the K9 Unit and the Flying Squad, immediately responded. Officers from the Westonaria Police spotted the Hyundai travelling on the N12 near Zuurbekom. They managed to stop the vehicle and the suspect attempted to escape.
“The officers were able to arrest the suspect and found a firearm and ammunition in his possession,” Ernst said.
Meanwhile, Fochville Police officers were in the area as well. They were directed by a Military Police vehicle, which had located another car, a Renault, that was part of the incident.
The Renault was spotted and officers followed it into Zuurbekom where the driver came to a sudden stop and both occupants fled on foot. Members of the Flying Squad caught up to the driver and managed to arrest him.
The passenger was later found and arrested by the Military Police who handed the suspect over to the Bekkersdal Police as the capture was effected in their area of jurisdiction.
The stolen money and cigarettes were found in the Renault and three suspects aged 41, 34 and 31 respectively were detained. Police say all three suspects are from Soweto.
West Rand Cluster Commander, Major General Anna Mateisi, expressed her appreciation towards all members involved in the apprehension of the suspects. “A special mention goes to the members of the Military Police who assisted in the case. It is evident that communication and teamwork yields results,” Mateisi said.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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Five arrested after high speed chase
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