Five suspects have been arrested in Gauteng after allegedly hijacking a truck while dressed in law enforcement uniforms.
The men, aged between 50 and 69, were apprehended shortly after hijacking a truck transporting solar batteries valued at approximately R5 million on Modderfontein Road in Sebenza. During the operation, the truck driver, who had been kidnapped, was successfully rescued.
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According to police, two of the suspects were wearing Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department uniforms while the others had South African Police Service reflective jackets.
The arrest was the result of a coordinated effort involving multiple specialized police units and private security teams. Their swift action followed intelligence about a planned hijacking in the area.
The suspects face charges including hijacking, kidnapping, impersonating police officers, and possession of suspected stolen goods. Two vehicles used in the crime, a Hyundai Accent and a Hyundai iX35, were seized.
Officials believe this breakthrough could assist in solving similar cases where criminals have posed as police officers. The provincial police commissioner praised the teamwork and ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and private security services.