Two days ago, a 23-year-old man was arrested along the N12 for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
According to Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, the Bekkersdal Police spokesperson, the N12 has been identified as a hot spot for hijackings and as a result, Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Commissioner initiated and deployed more vehicles, including crime intelligence, to monitor and curb the scourge of this crime affecting all motorists.
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Lefakane said the arrest follows after Bekkersdal Police conducted their routine patrol duties along the N12 on Tuesday, 19 November.
She said two men were spotted near a diesel depot – a hijacking hot spot. Police officers on duty decided to proceed to the spot with the intention of searching the men. Before they could get there, they noticed a silver Polo stopping and giving the pair a lift.
“The police members drove faster and persuaded the driver of the vehicle to stop near the West Rand Clay Bricks premises. Before the police could reach the vehicle, they noticed doors opening and the same pair fled into the open veld, leaving the driver alone.
“Police gave chase and with assistance from an off-duty member from the Mounted unit, they managed to catch one of the two. When they searched his bag, they found a firearm loaded with live ammunition. They searched the vehicle and on the front passenger seat they found another loaded firearm wrapped in plastic. The female driver alleged that she only gave the pair a lift and that she doesn’t know them.”
The suspect arrested was charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He appeared in the Westonaria Magistrates’ Court on Thursday morning, 21 November and will be held in custody pending his bail hearing.
Major General Kekana welcomed the arrest of the suspect and condemned the behaviour of the motorist.
“She placed her life in serious danger. Fortunately, we were in the right place at the right time to prevent another crime from happening. We urge motorists driving on the N12 to be vigilant and observant at all times. Please avoid picking up hitchhikers or stopping unnecessarily along the road,” he said.
Following the tips below will help to ensure your safety:
• Always keep your doors locked
• Avoid stopping along the road to relieve yourself
• Never stop when another motorist points as if there is something wrong with your car
• Never stop when asked to by unmarked vehicles
• Try to be as observant as possible
• Have your EMS numbers on speed dial.
The National Commissioner of the Police has vowed to create a safe and secure environment for all, including our visitors. This is why the District Commissioner, Major General Kekana, has declared war against those who commit crime in his area of jurisdiction. “I will not rest until the West Rand is safe and free from crime,” he concluded.
