Amputee hijack suspect appears in court
An amputee, the only uninjured suspect in a shootout with police after a hijack incident, appeared in court this week.
Aaron Ratau was arrested near Groblersdal after a high speed chase and shootout with police. A second man, who cannot be named before he appears in court, is recuperating in hospital after he was injured during the same incident.
The three suspects allegedly hijacked a car belonging to a Hartelus resident after he gave them a lift last week Thursday. Hartelus is situated near Roossenekal in Limpopo.
Read: Taxi driver saves octogenarians from hijack ordeal
The victim was threatened with a gun and thrown out of his car. Police caught up with the hijackers near Groblersdal and retaliated when the suspects started shooting at them.
Watch: VIDEO – Suspect killed in foiled hijack attempt
Emmanuel Maila was shot and killed whilst his two accomplices surrendered to police.
Ratau, who is missing a leg and walks on crutches, faces charges of hijacking, possession of a suspected stolen vehicle, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as attempted murder.
Read: Hijacking drama – Amputee arrested, another killed during shootout, high speed chase
He has been remanded in custody for a formal bail application next week. The second accused will join him in court as soon as he is discharged from hospital.
Other news:
VIDEO – Tosca robbed by gang of five armed men
Pupil refused exam because of beard
VIDEO – Businessman robbed of R57 000 after being followed from mall
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