A SUSPECTED property hijacker, who has been on the run from the police, was arrested during a sting operation in the early hours of the morning of October 25 in Turffontein.
It is alleged that the suspect was involved in the hijacking of a property in 2016. The rightful owner was denied access to his property after he purchased it. It is also alleged that the suspect threatened to kill him if he ever set foot on the property again.
The suspect will appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on October 26 where he will be charged for fraud, theft and intimidation.
In addition, 12 suspected property hijackers were arrested at 42 Biccard Street in Turffontein.
It is alleged that the rightful owner leased his property to a tenant in 2015 and they both agreed that he can sublet and collect monthly rental on behalf of the owner.
The new tenants had refused to sign subletting contracts. At the time, the owner had also decided to renovate the property.
While they were busy with renovations, a group of about 50 people are said to have overpowered the security guard and forcefully moved into the property.
The matter was then reported to the Group Forensics and Investigation Services (GFIS) in September 2018 for investigation. A sting operation was set up on October 25 where the suspects were arrested. The suspects will be charged for trespassing and malicious damage to property.
While the team was busy making arrests, a vehicle passed by the hijacked property. Shots were fired into the air from the vehicle before the car drove off. Police are still looking for the suspects.
Executive mayor councillor Herman Mashaba said, “No amount of intimidation will stop our dedicated teams from winning back properties which are in the hands of hijackers.
“Criminals must know that they might run, but there is no place for them to hide in Johannesburg. Operation Buya Mthetho remains determined to ensure that the rule of law returns to our communities.
“I am delighted that two more property owners have finally gained control of their properties, which were in the hands of the hijackers. This brings the total number of properties handed back to rightful owners to 34. The City will leave no stone unturned when dealing with criminal activities within its jurisdiction. We are committed to ensuring that we stop the rot in our city and make it a prosperous and inclusive place for our people to live, work and play.”
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