Police recover hijacked vehicle and firearm in Serwalo Trust, Thaba Nchu

Selosesha police have recovered a hijacked vehicle and a firearm that was robbed from its owner upon acting on an intelligence operation around Serwalo Trust.

On Tuesday 2 November 2021 at approximately 11:00, Selosesha Crime Intelligence and Selosesha Flying Squad acted swiftly on an intelligence-driven operation upon receiving information about a suspected hijacked vehicle in Serwalo Trust, Thaba Nchu.

Police spotted the green Toyota Conquest estimated at R 50 000-00 and stopped it. Upon further investigation, it was found to have been stolen around Kopanong in Bloemfontein last month. The correct number plate has been exchanged.

Police searched the vehicle and found a 9mm pistol with a magazine filled with two rounds. An empty cartridge was also found. A 28-year-old male could not produce a firearm license. The firearm was circulated and found to have been robbed from its lawful owner during August 2021. A 28-year-old African male was apprehended for alleged possession of a suspected stolen vehicle and unlawful possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

Investigations are still underway and the recovered firearm will be sent for ballistic testing to determine if it was not used in any commission of a crime.

The apprehended suspect will appear before Thaba Nchu Magistrates’ Court soon facing charges of possession of a stolen vehicle and unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm.