Man arrested for attempted hijacking and possession of unlicensed firearm
A 36-year-old man is in hospital under police guard in hospital after he was arrested for an attempted hijacking and for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition at Galerria Mall, Amanzimtoti. He will appear in the Amanzimtoti Magistrates' Court once he is discharged from hospital.
On 5 June 2016 at about 18h00 the victim was in her blue Toyota Avanza vehicle at Galleria Mall parking when she was approached by the suspect. It is alleged that the suspect pointed her with a firearm and demanded the car keys. As the victim was in a state of shock, she heard gunshots and the suspect fled the scene. The victim was not injured during the incident.
An off-duty police officer who was in the vicinity heard about the attempted hijacking and traced the suspect. It is alleged that the suspect fell from the top roof parking in an attempt to escape and was arrested with the help of security guards. An unlicensed firearm was also recovered from the suspect. He was rushed to hospital for treatment after he was injured as a result of falling.
The KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Bhekinkosi Langa praised the member who sacrifice his life and arrested the suspect while off duty. ‘I also thanked the security guards who assisted in arresting the suspect at the mall. The detectives will profile the arrested suspect to check if he is not wanted for other hijackings in the province,’ he said.
Enquiries:
Lieutenant Colonel Thulani Zwane
Cell: 071 683 6525
Email: kzn.mediacentre@saps.gov.za
