High-speed chase ends in three arrests and firearm seizures in La Rochelle
Three suspects were arrested after allegedly fleeing from JMPD officers during a high-speed pursuit through La Rochelle.
A coordinated response by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) CCTV Control Room, Tactical Response Unit (TRU), and SAPS Johannesburg K9 Unit led to the successful interception and arrest of three suspects following a high-speed chase in La Rochelle on August 26.
Officers were patrolling along La Rochelle Road when they spotted a white Volkswagen T-Cross travelling at high speed. The officers turned around and followed the vehicle occupied by three males.
When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver allegedly failed to comply and accelerated away.
A high-speed pursuit ensued, and it continued to the intersection of Forest and Victoria streets in La Rochelle. During the pursuit, the driver allegedly disregarded traffic signals and road signs.
The three occupants eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot in different directions. Officers pursued the suspects on foot, resulting in the arrest of one suspect.
He was found in possession of a firearm concealed in a holster. The firearm had its serial number filed off.
During questioning, the suspect allegedly informed officers that there were three firearms inside the vehicle and that the firearms had recently been received from another person.
While officers were interviewing the suspect, a member of the public alerted them to the whereabouts of another suspect.
Officers responded to the location and apprehended the second suspect, who was also found in possession of a firearm. The third suspect later contacted one of the arrested suspects to establish their whereabouts.
Officers arranged a meeting with the suspect and proceeded to the agreed location. The suspect was observed driving a white Suzuki Ertiga.
A takedown operation was conducted, resulting in his arrest. He was found in possession of a firearm, while live ammunition was recovered from inside the vehicle.
A search of the white Volkswagen T-Cross revealed that it was fitted with false number plates. Further checks established that the vehicle had been reported stolen in a case registered at Parkview SAPS.
In total, officers recovered three firearms, 70 rounds of live ammunition, two motor vehicles and false number plates. All three suspects were arrested and detained at Moffat View SAPS.
The suspects are facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and live ammunition, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, defeating the ends of justice, and reckless and negligent driving.
The JMPD commends the members of the public who assisted officers during the operation. Their cooperation and timely assistance contributed to the successful apprehension of the suspects.
