When Bedfordview resident Mr Michael Casertano was hijacked recently, he lost a part of him that cannot imagine life without.
Michael told the NEWS that on the night of May 24 he was hijacked outside the Bedfordview Police Station and his white BMW 520i 1991 CN 35 SG GP was taken.
He said losing the car which had a tablet device inside and other belongings cannot compare to the pain of losing Joey, his dog, who was inside the car during the incident.
“Although he was able to distract the hijackers long enough for me to get out, he was not able to get out of the car before they drove off,” he said.
Michael said the dog, a dachshund cross chihuahua, is the heart of his family.
“My little niece called Joey her brother. They are very close and to me he is like a son. He always went where we went and ate everything that we ate. I am heartbroken and constantly pray that someone may find him,” said Mr Casertano.
Affectionately known as Jojo, the five-year-old dog loves fried chicken and enjoys KFC.
His brother, Mr Lorenzo Casertano said their family had been to many parts of Guateng to try and find Joey.
“I have received calls from people in the Vaal saying they found a dog that matches Joey’s description, but upon arrival we find it’s not him. It has been a stressful time for all of us in the family. We hope and pray every day that the hijackers have dropped him off or left him on the side of the road somewhere and a good Samaritan picked him up,” said Mr Casertano.
Spokesperson for the Bedfordview SAPS, Warrant Officer Mduduzi Nhlabathi said an investigation was under way into the case.
He wished the family well in finding Joey.
“As the police our job is not done until victims of crime have found justice. In this case investigations are still ongoing, but we do hope the Casertanos can find their furry friend,” said W/O Nhlabathi.
Joey has a tan colour and according to Michael, he has not been sterilised.
“Anyone with information on his whereabouts can please contact me on 0843432699,” said Mr Casertano.
