In a crackdown on crime in the Nelson Mandela Bay District, Gqeberha police have made multiple arrests related to criminal activities, resulting in several apprehensions and confrontations over the weekend. The series of incidents includes attempted murder, house robberies, vehicle hijackings, and a murder.
According to police spokesperson, Captain Andre Beetge, on Sunday, May 5 at about 09:00, an 18-year-old male was shot in the chest in Nkanjeni Street, Kuyga, Greenbushes.
"The victim was taken to hospital for treatment, and a case of attempted murder was opened for investigation.
"Investigations were conducted by SAPS Kabega Park, and at 14:00, the 25-year-old suspect was arrested in Kuyga and detained," said Beetge.
Beetge added that on the same day, at about 14:15, SAPS New Brighton crime prevention unit members responded to a house robbery in progress at a house in Hlizo Street, New Brighton.
"On their arrival and entering the house, they arrested a suspect who was found in the passage. In another room, a second suspect was apprehended while he was threatening a couple at gunpoint.
"As police entered the room, they were pointed with the firearm and the suspect was fatally shot.
"A 9mm pistol with ammunition and a black kit bag used to carry the stolen items from the house, were confiscated," Beetge explained.
Cases of house robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and possession of stolen goods were opened and being investigated by SAPS New Brighton.
On Monday, May 6 about 04:00, it is alleged that a VW Polo was hijacked by two suspects in Bertram Street, Zwide.
He further added, "at about 07:15, a truck with meat cargo was also hijacked by four armed suspects in Industrial Street, Swartkops.
"At about 08:30 Kariega SAPS K9 members found the truck and VW Polo abandoned next to a tavern in NU13 in Motherwell.
He said when the authorities arrived, three men were seen running."
"The truck was searched and a 9mm pistol, a cell phone and cell network jammer device were found and confiscated. Inside the tavern, meat carcasses and packaged meat with an estimated value of about R 1,3 million were found and confiscated," he stated.
It is also alleged that on the same day about 09:45, the body of Bhongolwethu Saluwe (31), was found in a bushy area close to Old Mission Road, Bethelsdorp.
Beetge said Saluwe sustained several wounds and bruises to his head and body.
Motive for the murder is under investigation.
And on the same day, a 24-year-old suspect was arrested in Booysens Park on a charge of murder.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata sends out a clear message to criminals that their actions will not be tolerated.
"The full force of the law will come down on those who break it. We are watching, and we will catch you. The dedication and successes achieved by our members, is commendable," added Ncata.