Four suspected bike hijackers nabbed after police chase
The matter was reported to IPID for investigation.
Boksburg North SAPS station commander Colonel Mack Mngomezulu applauded the swift response of officers that led to the arrest of four suspects believed to be involved in bike hijackings.
The officers arrested the suspects after being shot on the corner of Sett Street and Pretoria Roads on June 5.
According to Boksburg North SAPS spokesperson Constable Khakhathi Siphoro, Sergeant Semake Petrus Matshaba of the Trio Task Team spotted a suspicious-looking white Toyota Etios with five occupants while on patrol that day at about 19:45.
Siphoro said Matshaba suspected the vehicle was involved with a motorbike hijacking in Ravensklip on June 4, as it matched the description given by the victim.
“Matshaba followed the car until he had a clear view of the registration number and could confirm it was a match.
“What further raised suspicion was when the officer spotted the rear number plate of the Etios was secured with cable ties.”
Matshaba called for back-up to which Constables Thabelo Maleta and Conny Dimakatso Sibanyoni responded.
On the corner of Tim and Sett streets, the officers activated the blue light and siren to stop the vehicle.
“The suspects sped off recklessly at a high speed. As they sped off, one man raised a firearm, and the police fired shots at the suspects while chasing them,” said Siphoro.
The suspects lost control of the vehicle and hit a tree on the corner of Sett Street and Pretoria Road.
One suspect, wearing a red sweater, jumped out of the vehicle and fled on foot. The other four were still in the car when the officers instructed them to get out and lie on the ground.
All four had been wounded and admitted to hospital.
Siphoro said the officers recovered two firearms, ammunition and two false number plates.
The suspects are charged with attempted murder and the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
At the time of going to print, it was unclear when the suspects would appear in court as they were still recovering in hospital.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed the matter has been reported to them for investigation.
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