The hijacking took place at noon, on the corner of South Main Reef Road and Paul Kruger Highway, in New Era.
The cargo comprised 110 containers of cigarettes, valued at approximately R990 000.
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The suspect, aged 32 years, is now facing a charge of hijacking.
Capt Johannes Ramphora, Springs police spokesman, says the driver of a Mercedes Benz Sprinter was on his way from Marborow to deliver the cigarettes in Springs, before he was forced to stop by four hijackers in a BMW, who were armed with R5 rifles and 9mm pistols.
“They pretended to be police members,” he says.
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One of the robbers took the keys of the Sprinter and drove off in the vehicle, followed by his three accomplices in the BMW.
It is believed the driver of the Sprinter stopped a passing Germiston Flying Squad vehicle and informed the SAPS members of the hijacking.
“They chased the Sprinter and managed to stop the vehicle behind Laerskool PAM Brink, where they arrested the suspect,” says Ramphora.
The driver of the Sprinter phoned the owners who arrived at the scene and identified the cigarettes and vehicle.
The vehicle and stolen cigarettes were taken to the police station.
“We commend the Flying Squad members for their swift reaction, which led to the arrest not the suspect,” Ramphora adds.
“Unfortunately, the other three robbers fled the scene when they noticed the SAPS vehicle.
The suspect will appear in court soon.
