Suspect arrested and kidnapping victims rescued

On 21 August 2026 at approximately 18:00, police members were conducting crime prevention duties in the Tshwane area following information regarding the hijacking of an Omoda motor vehicle and the kidnapping of two people, a man and woman in Centurion.

The hijacked vehicle was subsequently abandoned by the suspects in Atteridgeville.

Further information was received that the suspects and the two victims were travelling in a black Audi in the vicinity of Block XX, Soshanguve, along the R80 Highway, heading south towards Pretoria.

Police Members commenced patrols along the Mabopane Highway and spotted a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle. A high-speed pursuit ensued in the direction of Pretoria. 

As the suspected vehicle approached the Areyeng Bus Station in Paul Kruger Street, the driver lost control and the vehicle overturned.

The suspects alighted from the vehicle and fled from the scene on foot. During the incident, shots were exchanged between the police and the suspects. The two victims managed to escape without injuries.

Police members conducted an extensive search of the area, including the bus station offices and one of the suspects was apprehended with the assistance of security officers.

A search of the suspect led to the discovery of a bag containing a firearm with the serial number filed off, as well as one 9mm magazine containing live ammunition.

Investigations continue to determine whether the suspect may be linked to other criminal activities with the firearm handed in for forensic testing. 

The 47-year-old suspect is expected to appear before Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 August 2026, facing charges relating to possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, possession of a hijacked motor vehicle, hijacking and kidnapping. 

Police investigations are continuing to locate the second suspect and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.