Police say the hijacking of vehicles has become a crime of prominence and is on the increase on the West Rand.
The warning comes after the most recent hijacking incident that occurred on the N12 near Zuurbekom in Bekkersdal on Wednesday, 14 August.
According to Constable Lucky Matome, the West Rand District Police spokesperson, six or more suspects driving in three different vehicles identified as two VW Polos and a Nissan NP300 forced the victim and his crew off the road and threatened them with firearms.
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“During the ordeal, the victims were robbed of an undisclosed amount of cash and their cellphones, and were dropped off, unharmed, at an unknown location. The suspects then fled with the victim’s bakkie which was loaded with a Tioxler Mechanic Nuclear Device as well as other industrial equipment,” he said.
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police Commissioner, made a clarion call to the community to come forward with any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the vehicle and its cargo.
“We are are seeking community assistance following the hijacking of a white Isuzu KB250 bakkie/ van with registration number DS 80 FM GP. The vehicle was loaded with explosives and other industrial equipment. Some of these explosives are used to commit other violent crimes, such as the bombing of cash delivery vehicles or ATMs.
“It is a crime that in recent years has not only increased in frequency, but has also been associated with higher levels of violence in its perpetration. The growth in these crimes, i.e. cargo theft and hijacking, has significantly contributed to increased levels of fear of crime and has a very negative impact on the economy of the country.”
He added, “Although the police are constitutionally mandated to protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property, for the police to realise the vision of creating a safe and secure environment for all people in South Africa, we need everyone to participate by working with the police and providing credible information that can assist in bringing the perpetrators to book.
“The police alone cannot address this challenge, thus collaboration is key, and we commit to mobilise all sectors of the community to take an active role in their safety. Community members are urged to contact the police immediately and should not attempt to physically touch those explosives as they are harmful. Furthermore, do not confront the suspects, as the safety of our community is our priority.”
Anyone with information that can assist in this matter can contact Lieutenant Colonel Mashapa on 082 461 4435 or CrimeStop on 08600 10111.
