Speedy end to hijacking

Three men were arrested within 10 minutes of hijacking an Intertown Transport delivery bakkie on Wednesday.

The hijacking took place at 8.30am and the three suspects, aged between 22 and 26, were arrested by 8.40am and all the stolen parcels recovered.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Alwin Labans said the hijacking happened in Selago Crescent in Malabar.

“When the driver stopped the vehicle, a bakkie pulled up behind him and three men confronted him,” he said.

“The driver and his assistant were forced to lie on the ground while the suspects fled in the vehicle, followed by their getaway bakkie.

“A witness alerted the police while following the suspects, who stopped in Haworthia Drive, Malabar, where they transferred boxes from the delivery vehicle into the getaway bakkie.”

The three then sped off, leaving the delivery vehicle on the side of the road.

Labans said while no firearm was seen, one of the suspects had his hand in his pocket, giving the impression that he had a weapon.

Within 10 minutes of the hijacking, police intercepted the robbers in Algoa Park.

“A chase ensued and the suspects were forced to stop in Chase Street,” Labans said.

“One of the suspects jumped out and tried to flee but a dog was released and apprehended him.

“The other two suspects were arrested inside the vehicle.

“All the stolen items were recovered inside the getaway bakkie.”

No firearms were found on the suspects or in their getaway bakkie.

Asked if the getaway bakkie was stolen, Labans said it was believed to belong to one of the suspects.

Most of the parcels are believed to contain basic medical supplies.

All three are due to appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate’s Court on Friday.