Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli, said members of the Bloemfontein Flying Squad arrested three suspects – aged between 28 and 43 – after receiving information while patrolling the Central Business District on 10 June 2023 at about 03:15. 

The arrests came after the police were on the lookout for a Silver VW Polo which was stolen during the night in Heidedal. Kareli alleged that the occupants were also involved in a robbery after a person was robbed while walking in the street in the Oranjesig area earlier, using the same vehicle.  

Members spotted the vehicle in the CBD and gave chase. The chase continued through Brandwag, Westdene and Bayswater until the vehicle was blocked in Dan Pienaar.

According to Kareli, the vehicle was recovered and three men, aged between 28 and 43, were arrested on the scene and detained for possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.  

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Meanwhile, the national police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, said the police have declared war against criminals who attack and kill police officers. This after two suspects linked to the killing of a detective commander attached to the Villiers Police Station were arrested. The 48-year-old Warrant Officer Neels du Randt (48) was sadly shot and killed by gun-wielding men, while he was chasing a truck that was hijacked.

“This is a war that has been called by criminals, we cannot come second. We cannot co-rule with criminals, communities have put their trust in us and we need to fight back to ensure the safety and security of our communities and police officers. We are going to respond accordingly until we win this fight against criminals. The families of these officers are looking up to us to ensure that those who are behind these killings and attacks face the full might of the law.”

“The SAPS has set aside R25 million to enhance the safety and security of all police service points for this financial year. The organisation also continues to implement its Police Safety Strategy to ensure the safety and security of police officers on and off duty,” she said.

Mathe also revealed that in Gauteng police have also launched a manhunt for two suspects after 41-year-old Sergeant Leka Maja was shot and killed during the tracing of illegal firearms in Mamelodi on Thursday 8 June 2023. While Lekone Morris Mohajane (55), the detective branch commander at the Mooinooi Police Station in the North West, was also shot dead in a hijacking incident.

OFM News