VEREENIGING – The quick thinking of Sebokeng police led to the brave rescue of three men held hostage during a brazen truck hijacking near Sonlandpark entrance on Waterdal Road.
According to police spokesperson, Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane the victims were driving along Grootvlei Road when six armed men ambushed their truck.
Mokhachane said the alarming incident unfolded when the driver noticed a vehicle flashing its headlights repeatedly behind him, forcing him to stop his truck loaded with two additional trucks and five vehicles.
As one passenger stepped out to investigate, he was confronted by the armed suspects who quickly escalated the situation.
“One of the suspects fired a shot at the driver’s window, shattering it, and ordered him to open the door,” said Mokhachane.
With the driver complying under pressure, the gang forced the driver and one passenger to the sleeping area behind the seats while the other passengers were made to crouch in the front.
The hijackers then took control of the truck, driving it to an undisclosed location where they demanded that the vehicles be transferred to another truck.
The driver complied fearing for his life.
However, the suspects’ plan began to untie as headlights approached from a distance.
Undiscovered to the criminals, the approaching vehicle belonged to patrolling officers from Sebokeng SAP, who had noticed suspicious activity near the Sonlandpark entrance and decided to investigate.
Sensing the police were closing in, the hijackers quickly abandoned one of the stolen trucks and fled on foot, while others managed to escape with a truck still loaded with a vehicle.
In a statement, Sedibeng Cluster Police Commissioner, Major General Nkhensani Lemba praised the officers for their bravery and vigilance.
“Their quick actions prevented a potentially deadly situation, and their commitment to protecting the community is commendable,” she said.
