Two suspects are expected to appear in court this morning for an ‘express kidnapping’ following a high-speed chase through Wynberg and Plumstead over the weekend.
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According to Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith, an ‘express kidnapping’ sees victims often held under duress as perpetrators hold them hostage and force them to maximise withdrawal limits and access to funds, even over several days.
On Friday, auxiliary officers were on patrol when they received information about a hijacked Chevrolet Spark earlier that evening, in which the suspects had kidnapped the victim, withdrawn funds from her bank card, and sold her phone. She was released about four hours later, unharmed.
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At approximately 11pm, auxiliary officers were patrolling the Wynberg and Plumstead areas when they spotted the hijacked vehicle on Main Road. As the officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver increased speed and dangerously overtook other vehicles in an attempt to evade the officers.
After a brief pursuit and scuffle, officers successfully stopped the vehicle and arrested both the male and female occupants.
During the search of the occupants and vehicle, cash believed to be from the sale of the mobile phone and an ATM withdrawal, a replica gas firearm, stolen clothing items and a knife were discovered.
The occupants were arrested on six charges, including possession of a hijacked motor vehicle, reckless and negligent driving and resisting arrest.
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Further charges relating to the hijacking and kidnapping will be added.
Smith said the male suspect had just been released from Pollsmoor prison two weeks prior and has a lengthy criminal record.
The suspects were detained at Diep River SAPS and are expected to appear in court on Monday.
‘The vigilant actions of the Law Enforcement Auxiliary volunteers, again demonstrate Cape Town has an endless supply of law-abiding, crime-fighting residents, determined to hold the line between good and evil,’ added Smith.
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Picture: Facebook / JP Smith