The suspects were arrested near the Pavilion mall in Westville.
Image: Supplied
THREE suspects believed to be a part of a hijacking syndicate operating in Westville, Pinetown, Chatsworth, and Malvern were arrested after a high speed chase with police and security officers near the Pavilion mall.
“Tools and devices used to break into and steal vehicles were found in the suspects’ vehicle, which was fitted with cloned number plates,” said Wynand Laatz, operations director at Mobi Claw 911 Emergency Response Services.
He said they intercepted the suspects after they were spotted in a vehicle wanted for several cases of theft of motor vehicles at about 10:15am on Saturday.
“We spotted the suspects’ vehicle travelling on St James Road in the Westville area. Upon noticing the SAPS members, the suspects attempted to evade arrest by fleeing at high speed, endangering other road users in the process.
“The pursuit led to a high-speed chase, with the suspects driving contraflow on Spine Road towards the Pavilion mall. Despite the suspects’ reckless driving, the team managed to cut the vehicle off on Spine Road,” he added.
Laatz said all three suspects were arrested.
The items seized from the suspects during the arrest.
Image: Supplied
Mike Breare, spokesperson for the Westville Community Policing Forum (CPF), said they were pleased with the arrests as vehicle theft was an ongoing concern in Westville and neighbouring communities.
He said the disruption of criminal networks operating across multiple areas is a significant step forward in addressing a pattern of incidents that has affected many residents.
“We commend the three arrests achieved through the coordinated efforts of the SAPS Westville Crime Prevention members and one of their security partners, Mobi Claw 911.
“We have noted that organised vehicle-related crime had been an ongoing concern across Westville and neighbouring communities. While this success is encouraging, vehicle theft and theft out of motor vehicles remains a prevalent crime. The CPF urges residents to stay alert when parking at shopping centres, schools, places of worship, or along public roads,” he added.
Breare said motorists were reminded to double-check that vehicles are locked, avoid leaving valuables visible inside vehicles, and make use of well-lit and monitored parking areas wherever possible.
“This capture of the syndicate highlights the importance of strong collaboration between SAPS, private security, and the broader community. The CPF remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen crime prevention efforts and enhance safety throughout the greater Westville area,” he added.