POTCHEFSTROOM: 20 July 2023 – In an continuous effort to rid the streets of criminals, a collective effort by Provincial Crime Intelligence, Ekurhuleni District Trio Task Tea, Insurance Crime Bureau, Tracker and Bad Boy Security lead to a takedown operation in Potchefstroom yesterday, 19 July 2023 at about 16:00
Information was received of suspects, driving in a white Ford Ranger double cab bakkie, possibly involved in blue light hijackings and armed robberies. The suspects would allegedly impersonate police officers and rob and hijack unsuspecting victims, whilst being threatened with firearms.
The vehicle was spotted in Potchefstroom and followed to Chief Albert Lethuli Street on the Bult, where the team pounced on the unsuspected suspects. During the arrest police discovered two fire-arms, police uniform, including a reflective jacket and other police equipment. The Ranger was equipped with a blue light and siren. Initial investigations indicated that the vehicle, that was fitted with false number plates, was hijacked in Ivory Park, Thembisa.
The trio, aged 43, 39 and 36 were immediately arrested and charged for possession of suspected stolen property, being in possession of illegal firearms, theft and robbery. Linkages to other cases reported in Gauteng and North West is eminent. They will appear in the Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Court soon.
The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena , congratulated the teams for their cooperation, dedication and bravery that lead to these arrests. He repeated that police would leave no stone unturned to ensure that hardened criminals are put behind bars.