A suspect allegedly linked to truck hijackings, armed robberies, ATM bombings and the impersonation of police officers has been arrested during an intelligence-driven operation in Ennerdale.
The operation was carried out by SAPS Crime Intelligence Head Office MDOC, SAPS Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, CAP Specialised Operations and Tracker Connect after information was received about a target believed to be involved in serious and violent crimes across Gauteng and neighbouring provinces.
According to authorities, intelligence led officers to a residential premises in Ennerdale, where the suspect was allegedly operating from. An operational plan was developed and executed, resulting in the suspect being contained and arrested during the raid.
A search of the premises led to the recovery of several items believed to be linked to criminal activities. These included three unlicensed firearms and ammunition, with one of the firearms reportedly sought in connection with a truck hijacking case registered in Potchefstroom.
Officers also recovered 9mm and .45 calibre ammunition, South African Police Service uniforms and insignia, a Gauteng Traffic Police uniform, blue lights, a siren system, a military-grade signal jamming device, SAPS dockets, false registration plates, hand gloves and cellphones.
Preliminary investigations have linked the suspect to a number of serious crimes, including armed robberies, ATM bombings and several truck hijackings committed in Gauteng and surrounding provinces. Authorities also believe the suspect may have been involved in impersonating police officers during some of the alleged crimes.
Police said further investigations are underway to determine the suspect’s possible involvement in other criminal cases.
The suspect is expected to face charges relating to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, impersonating police officers, possession of suspected stolen property and other serious offences as the investigation continues.
