Late last month, an off-duty Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer from the Tactical Response Unit received a call from his brother-in-law informing him that three males driving a red Volkswagen Polo had forcefully removed the headlight from his Volkswagen Polo GTI and further implied that he pursued the vehicle and lost visual on the way to Eldorado Park.
The off-duty officer then drove around Eldorado Park looking for the said vehicle, and approximately after an hour of searching, he noticed a red VW Polo that matched the description stationary in the side street next to Boundary Road.
The officer stopped a marked police vehicle and asked for assistance. The officers immediately approached the vehicle and when moving towards it the back seat passenger instantly got out and fled.
“The officers managed to apprehend the driver and the front passenger. The officers informed the suspects that they were police and requested to search the vehicle. While searching, the stolen VW Polo headlight was recovered at the back of the driver’s seat. The duo was arrested and detained at Eldorado Park SAPS where they were charged with the possession of suspected stolen property,” said JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla.
Upon arrival at the police station, a thorough search of the vehicle was conducted and fake registration plates were found under the back seat. Furthermore, it has come to light that one of the suspects is currently out on bail for an alleged murder charge and is due to appear in court on the 5th of March 2024.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department commends the vigilance and quick action demonstrated by the off-duty officer and collaborating officers, leading to the apprehension of these suspects. This arrest serves as a testament to the dedication and commitment of our officers to ensuring the safety and security of our communities.
