Suspected hijacker

Photo: Stock/Canva

Suspected hijacker shot himself in the head while being chased by police on foot

Police said a suspected hijacker was arrested while another one shot himself in the head while being chased on foot by police.

Suspected hijacker

Photo: Stock/Canva

A suspected hijacker was arrested on Saturday in the Eastern Cape, while another one shot himself in the head while being chased on foot by police.

THE VEHICLE WAS HIJACKED IN MSOBOMVU ON SATURDAY

According to police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu it is alleged that during the early hours of Saturday morning, 9 October 2021, the Highway Patrol Unit received information regarding a motor vehicle, a blue Ford Fiesta that had been hijacked in Msobomvu.

“The vehicle was heading in the direction of Mount Ayliff. At about 07:00 on 9 October 2021, members of the Highway Patrol were still holding observation on N2, opposite Chithwa Location, Mount Ayliff, when they spotted a vehicle fitting the description of the wanted vehicle.”

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Naidu said when police stopped the vehicle, two men, one armed with a firearm and started running in different directions.

“SAPS members mobilized back up and chased the suspects on foot. The armed suspect fired at the police officers while trying to flee. As the members closed in on the suspect, he allegedly shot himself in his head. He died on the scene. A 9mm pistol was found next to him (serial number filed off).”

She said the second suspect, aged 33-years-old was found hiding in a nearby toilet. He was detained on a charge of possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.

“An inquest docket was opened in respect to the deceased suspect. The firearm will be sent to forensics for further analysis.”

Acting Alfred Nzo District Commissioner, Brig Asogran Naidoo commended the members for their brave actions in pursuing the suspects.

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“The team work between the Highway Patrol and Mt Ayliff members is a very significant contribution in our efforts to curb trio crimes which include vehicle hijacking.

“The members risked their lives in ensuring that criminals do not run rampant in our areas and that we will endeavour to squeeze their space while making sure that our communities are and feel safe.”