Picture: for illustration purposes
The Gqeberha Police had a momentous breakthrough on Saturday evening when they arrested four suspects and recovered three hijacked vehicles in a series of carefully coordinated actions. The operation kicked off following a tracker alert for an Isuzu bakkie stolen in the district of New Brighton.
Colonel Pricilla Naidu, the police spokesperson, detailed how the stolen bakkie was found abandoned in Gamlana Street in New Brighton. The recovery was rapidly succeeded by reports of two more hijacked vehicles; a Nissan Micra in Kwazakele, and a Ford Fiesta in New Brighton.
Acting on these reports, a pursuit began after the suspects identified the unmarked police vehicle. The chase culminated in a breackneck shootout where the driver of the alleged stolen vehicle lost control, crashing into a pole in Young Park.
A combination of swift action and teamwork resulted in the apprehension of four suspects. Police also recovered a replica firearm at the scene. One suspect endured gunshot wounds to the head, while another incurred injuries during the accident.
In a twist of events, a fifth suspect managed to escape and is now on the run, initiating a manhunt.
The arrested suspects, aged between 25 and 30, are expected to make their first appearance in New Brighton magistrate court soon. Charges awaiting them include attempted murder, possession of a hijacked vehicle, illegal possession of ammunition, pointing of a firearm, and reckless and negligent driving, as confirmed by Colonel Naidu.