Durban - A suspected car hijacker had his alleged crime spree cut short this week when he was arrested after both he and a man he had attempted to hijack only an hour earlier arrived at the same hospital for medical treatment.
KwaZulu-Natal police said the suspected hijacker was arrested by Chatsworth police at a local hospital on Tuesday after he was identified by his alleged victim when both turned up for medical assistance.
Police spokesperson Colonel Jay Naicker said: “It is alleged that the victim was approached by three suspects in Crossmoor who threatened him with firearms and attempted to deprive him of his vehicle. The victim put up a fight and the attackers eventually fled on foot, leaving the injured victim behind. The victim sustained head injuries and was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
“Whilst at the hospital waiting to receive medical treatment, he was able to identify one of his attackers also waiting to receive medical treatment. He immediately alerted police and Chatsworth SAPS members quickly responded.
“A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged for attempted hijacking. He will a appear in the Chatsworth Magistrates Court soon. Two other suspects are still at large and are being sought by police.”
KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni, applauded the police for their quick response. “We will ensure that his accomplices are traced so that they can be placed behind bars,” she said.
ANA