Lentswe, Potchefstroom - The hijacking of a Botswana national near Mafikeng lead the police throughout the province to the arrest of the suspects in Potchefstroom. The Provincial Police Commissioner of NW, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the arrest of three suspects, two men - aged 29 and 30 - and a 17-year-old female, following a hijacking and robbery incident involving a 65-year-old Botswana national.
According to Col Adele Myburgh, police spokesperson, the suspects were arrested on Monday December 15, just after 17:00 in Potchefstroom after information was received about a hijacking. A coordinated operation was activated by Crime Intelligence, the Flying Squad of Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, the Provincial Drug Task Team, as well as various private security companies.
According to reports, the incident was reported earlier on the same day at approximately 10:00, when the victim was travelling along the road between Nooitgedacht and Mooifontein, near Mahikeng in her vehicle, a Toyota Yaris. The victim was allegedly accosted by three suspects travelling in a white vehicle, who blocked the road and forced her to stop.
The suspects reportedly pointed her with a firearm and threatened her with a knife, compelling her to get into their vehicle. She was subsequently driven to Itsoseng and Mahikeng, where she was forcefully taken to various Automatic Teller Machines (ATM’s) and coerced into withdrawing money from her bank account.
After the withdrawals, the victim was abandoned in Mahikeng. Her cellphones were also stolen during the ordeal.
Major General Naidoo commended the swift and effective collaboration between the various law enforcement units and private security companies, stating that such teamwork remains critical in combating serious and violent crime.
He said the arrest of these suspects demonstrates the commitment by police in ensuring that criminals are brought to book and that communities, including visitors to the North West province, are protected. He emphasized that police will not tolerate acts of violence and intimidation on the roads, especially during the Festive Season, when more travellers are expected.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on Thursday December 18, facing charges related to hijacking, robbery, kidnapping and possession of stolen property.
The minor will be dealt with in terms of the Child Justice Act.
