GQEBERHA — A significant police operation in Gqeberha led to the arrest of a hijacking suspect and the recovery of firearms in two separate incidents, showcasing the effectiveness of increased police

According to South African Police Service, the first incident occurred when three men attempted to hijack a truck loaded with liquor in Struandale. The suspects forcibly removed the driver and tried to take control of the vehicle. Police on patrol spotted the truck at the intersection of Struanway and Armouplate Road and intervened. During the encounter, one suspect fired at the police, who returned fire, injuring him in both legs. The suspect was captured, and a 9mm pistol was recovered. He was hospitalized under police guard and is scheduled to appear at the Port Elizabeth Magistrate Court on charges of hijacking, attempted murder, kidnapping, and possession of an unlicensed firearm.

In a separate incident in the Chatty area, police observed a chase involving a Datsun Go and a grey Suzuki Ertiga. After the Datsun Go stopped to seek help from the police, the driver of the Suzuki attempted a drive-by but lost control of his vehicle shortly after. When confronted by police, he brandished a firearm and was fatally wounded in the resulting exchange. The firearm was confiscated, and his identity remains unknown. An inquest into the incident has been opened.

These incidents highlight ongoing efforts by the Public Order Police to combat crime in the region, resulting in the arrest of criminals and the recovery of illegal weapons.