11, including minor, arrested north of Pretoria for online robberies, hijacking
The suspects were arrested during an operation led by the local police's stabilisation task team.
A stabilization task team arrested 11 suspects linked to offenses including hijacking and involvement in online robberies within the Winterveld area in the north of Pretoria.
The suspects arrested consist of 10 adult men and a minor.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, said the operation, which took place on Friday, by the dedicated members of the Stabilization Task Team (STT) has demonstrated that those who break the law will face the full might of justice.
Masondo said the arrests follow after thorough investigations, and that task team members identified several suspects believed to be involved in online robberies and vehicle hijackings in the northern parts of Tshwane.
“With all available evidence verified through an observation and intelligence-driven operation, an operational track-and-trace plan was meticulously prepared and executed.”
He said this operation commenced on Friday night at Jikisi Stand in the Winterveld area.
“The tracing of 11 suspects was carried out with precision, and the unsuspecting individuals were apprehended without resistance or incident.”
In a separate incident, members of the STT were patrolling on Soutpan Road when a white Honda Ballade sped past them.
Masondo said a high-speed pursuit ensued, during which the team activated their blue lights and sirens in an attempt to stop the vehicle.
He said after pulling alongside the speeding car, they successfully forced it to a standstill.
“The vehicle was approached with tactical precision and thoroughly searched, but no illegal contraband or suspicious items were found.”
A subsequent check of the vehicle’s registration number revealed that it had not been reported stolen.
According to Masondo, “During a detailed on-scene investigation, the team discovered a service book and owner’s manual. Upon verifying the details, it was found that the engine and chassis numbers had been tampered with and did not correspond to the vehicle.”
He said further investigation determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen in Sinoville earlier this month.
“The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Ongoing investigations will determine whether the suspect was involved in the theft of the vehicle.”
Gauteng Police Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine commended all members involved for their meticulous efforts in combating crime.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
