Tshwane Metro cop arrested for hijacking in Mpumalanga! A Tshwane Metro Police officer, Hennie Mabasa, appeared in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on Friday, following his arrest in connection with a hijacking incident in Sundra, Mpumalanga.
Arrest Details
According to Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, Mabasa, 36, was apprehended on January 15, 2025, the same day the hijacking occurred. The incident took place at approximately 2 a.m. along the N12 Road in Sundra, where two courier company employees were traveling in a Mitsubishi bakkie as part of an escort for company trucks. Both employees were armed.
Ndubane reported that the hijacking unfolded when a VW Golf 7, equipped with a siren and flashing blue lights, approached the bakkie from behind and forced it to pull over.
The Incident
“When the driver of the bakkie stepped out, he was confronted by four individuals, including a woman dressed in Metro Police uniform,” said Ndubane.
The suspects demanded to see the driver’s license and soon discovered that the driver was armed. The suspects then confiscated the firearms and licenses from both employees and held them at gunpoint, forcing them to lie on the ground in front of the VW Golf.
Mabasa reportedly drove off with the bakkie’s driver in the VW Golf, while an accomplice drove away with the bakkie. The driver was later abandoned on Nel Street in Sundra, and his co-worker was left near the R42 Road.
Pursuit and Arrest
The co-worker managed to contact his employer, who picked him up. While searching for the stolen vehicle, they discovered the VW Golf stuck in mud near Delmas. Security companies were summoned for assistance.
When confronted, Mabasa initially claimed he was lost but later changed his story, alleging that he had been hijacked. His behavior became more suspicious when he attempted to evade police officers upon spotting their vehicle.
“Mabasa tried to flee but was quickly apprehended,” explained Ndubane.
Investigation and Court Appearance
Mabasa’s three accomplices remain at large, and police are actively pursuing leads to locate them.
The officer has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to return to court on January 23, 2025, where he is expected to apply for bail.
Public Reaction
The arrest of a law enforcement officer in connection with a hijacking case has drawn significant public attention. Many have expressed outrage over the alleged abuse of police resources, such as sirens and flashing lights, to facilitate criminal activities.
Efforts to Address Criminal Activity
The case has highlighted the ongoing challenge of rooting out corruption within law enforcement agencies. The involvement of an individual entrusted with public safety has raised concerns about the integrity of the Metro Police service and the need for stricter vetting and oversight mechanisms.
Conclusion
As the investigation unfolds, the authorities are under pressure to apprehend the remaining suspects and ensure justice is served. The case also underscores the importance of rebuilding trust in law enforcement and addressing systemic issues that enable such crimes.
Mabasa’s court appearance on January 23 will be closely watched as the legal proceedings move forward.
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