Johannesburg - A former policeman has been arrested for allegedly hijacking a cigarette delivery truck, Gauteng police said on Thursday.
“The former officer was arrested after he and two others (allegedly) hijacked a delivery vehicle in Lenasia on Wednesday,” Warrant Officer Kay Makhubela said.
Following the hijack, the trio allegedly drove for some distance before offloading the cigarettes into their BMW getaway car. They then drove towards Soweto.
“They came across a roadblock but they did not stop and drove through it. Police gave chase but two others managed to escape,” he said.
As police were doing a background check on the man they had apprehended it was established that he was a former detective stationed at Moroka police station.
The 24-year-old was dismissed in January this year for fraud-related charges.
Gauteng community safety MEC Faith Mazibuko applauded police for their swift reaction. She said police should be commended for the sterling work they did.
“This is an indication that we are everywhere and we will pounce when you least expect. Those that were involved will face the wrath of the law,” said Mazibuko.
The man was expected to appear in the Protea Magistrate's Court on Friday on charges of possession of stolen property and hijacking. - Sapa