Suspect behind bars for the possession of a hijacked vehicle and unlicensed firearm and ammunition

Police Officers from Wedela SAPS arrested a 29-year-old man for possession of hijacked motor vehicles and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

On Wednesday 04 August 2021 at about 15:00, Wedela SAPS members were busy with routine police work when they spotted a suspicious motor vehicle coming from an open veld near the cemetery in Wedela. Whilst they were following the vehicle, they made inquiries on it and the vehicle was found that it was reported as hijacked in June 2021 around Tshwane. They stopped the driver, ordered him out, and asked him to search. They found an unlicensed firearm with ammunition in his possession. The driver was immediately apprehended.

They then drove inside the veld to establish where he was coming from. They found an abandoned and dilapidated building. They searched through the building and found another vehicle. On enquiry of the second vehicle, it was also reported as hijacked on 04 August 2021 on the N12 road in Fochville and the victim was on his way to the hospital as he was severely assaulted. The victim’s property was also found in possession of the said suspect.

The recovered firearm will be sent for ballistic testing to establish whether or not it was used in the commission of other crimes. Both vehicles, a Blue GWM sedan and a White Datsun Go were impounded.

The suspect will be charged with Possession of hijacked motor vehicles and possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He will appear in the Fochville Magistrate Court soon

The West Rand District Commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana applauded the members for their dedication and resilience in their performance of duties. He also said that the suspect will be profiled to determine if he will have any linkages to other crimes especially hijackings as we are experiencing a high number of hijacking cases around the district.