Bultfontein: Concerted efforts by different police units and Tactical Response Teams (TRT) based in Majola and OR Tambo, along with Libode and Ngqeleni Vispol members, proved fruitful in OR Tambo District. A hijacked truck loaded with a shop owner’s stock, primarily groceries, traveling from Mthatha to Port St Johns via Ngxokweni locality – Ntlaza, was recovered after being diverted to Mtyu locality on Thursday at about 10:00.
According to South African Police Service, the loaded truck was intercepted by suspects in a grey Suzuki sedan at gunpoint. The suspects reportedly forced the truck driver to divert to Mtyu locality, where all the stock was offloaded onto an Isuzu bakkie and an 8-ton truck without registration plates. As police arrived at the scene, they spotted the two vehicles. The suspects attempted to flee on foot, but police managed to arrest three individuals aged between 25 and 36. The hijacked truck, along with its driver and co-driver, was found, and both vehicles used in the crime were confiscated. An investigation into the matter is ongoing to apprehend other suspects still at large, including the driver of the Suzuki sedan, who are believed to be part of the gang. The arrested suspects are expected to appear before Ngqeleni Magistrate’s Court on charges of truck jacking, robbery with a firearm, and attempted murder soon.
Major General Norman Modishana, the OR Tambo District Commissioner, commended the police for their unwavering dedication to fighting crime in the district, noting the vigour and professionalism they displayed during the operation.