Smash and grab suspect jumps to his death

A smash and grab suspect jumped to his death just a few minutes after he committed the crime on the M1 South freeway overpass.

According to police the suspect allegedly smashed a window of a car during congested traffic on the highway.

Hillbrow police spokesperson Constable Mduduzi Zondo said the police believed that the suspect saw a handbag placed on the passenger seat and broke the window.

Zondo said the motorist tried to hold onto her bag and a scuffle ensued but the suspect managed to grab the bag and fled the scene.

“He ran away and jumped off the (M1) highway (overpass) and unfortunately he fell to his death.” The bag was recovered, as well as a jamming device. Zondo said the man, in his middle 20s, had not been identified and an inquest docket was opened. He also appealed to motorists to avoid putting items on the passenger seats.

“We request motorists to put their items in the boot to avoid smash and grabs and theft out of motor vehicles, especially during the rush hour. People must stop putting anything that can entice the robbers on the passenger seat.”