Tensions escalated on Friday, 13 September 2024, as a high-speed chase unfolded along Albert Wessels Drive in Newcastle. Law enforcement officers engaged in an adrenaline-charged pursuit of a car thief, with two suspects frantically attempting to evade arrest.
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According to Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team member, Imran Ghafoor, the incident began when Ithemba Security received a tip-off about a stolen vehicle headed towards Newcastle.
Ghafoor explained that an operational team, including Newcastle SAPS, Newcastle SAPS K9 Unit, Newcastle Municipal traffic officials, Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team, and Ithemba Security, was immediately mobilised. They soon located the stolen vehicle travelling along Albert Wessels Drive.
“Upon noticing the operational team, the suspects sped off in the vehicle, leading to a high-speed chase that came to an end in Kwamathukuza. The suspects abandoned the stolen vehicle and fled on foot, jumping over people’s perimeter walls,” Ghafoor explained.
With tensions mounting, additional law enforcement support arrived on the scene, surrounding the area to ensure the suspects couldn’t escape. Ghafoor continued, “Operational members established a location where a suspect gained access into a community member’s house, hiding from law enforcement. The team tactically surrounded the target and breached access via a back door where the wanted suspect was placed under arrest.”
Later that same evening, law enforcement received fresh intelligence regarding the suspect who had managed to evade capture earlier in the day.
Ghafoor pointed out that four possible safe houses were searched, and in Madadeni, the team recovered and seized a Toyota Hilux that had been stolen a year ago from Mondlo, Zululand.
Adding to the finding of two stolen vehicles, law enforcement also discovered tools used for housebreaking and hijackings.
While the second suspect was not found, Ghafoor stressed, “Teams are on the ground, busy locating the outstanding suspect, and arrests are imminent.” Newcastle SAPS Spokesperson, Lizzy Arumugam, confirmed the incident and corroborated Ghafoor’s account, adding that investigations were actively underway to bring the remaining suspects to justice.
As the search for the suspect continues, what are your thoughts on the above? Share your views in the comment section below.
