A 47-year-old man has been arrested and two kidnapping victims safely rescued following a dramatic high-speed police chase linked to the hijacking of an Omoda vehicle in Centurion on Friday, 21 August 2026.
Sequence of events
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), members conducting crime-prevention duties in the Tshwane area at approximately 18:00 received information about the hijacking of an Omoda motor vehicle and the kidnapping of a man and a woman in Centurion. The hijacked vehicle was later abandoned by the suspects in Atteridgeville.
Further intelligence indicated 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 launched patrols along the Mabopane Highway, where they spotted a vehicle matching the description. A high-speed pursuit ensued in the direction of Pretoria.
Vehicle overturns and suspects flee
As the vehicle approached the Areyeng Bus Station in Paul Kruger Street, the driver lost control and the car overturned. The suspects alighted and fled on foot. Shots were exchanged between the police and the suspects during the incident. The two victims managed to escape without injuries.
Arrest and recovery of firearm
An extensive search of the area, including the bus station offices, led to the apprehension of one suspect with the assistance of security officers. A search of the suspect uncovered a bag containing a firearm with its serial number filled off, as well as a 9mm magazine containing live ammunition.
The firearm has been handed over for forensic testing. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspect may be linked to other criminals activities.
Court appearance and ongoing probe
The 47-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrate's Court on Monday, 24 August 2026. He faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, possession of a hijacked motor vehicle, hijacking, and kidnapping.
Police investigations continue to locate the second suspect and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.