Hijacking victim stuck in boot during high-speed chase, shootout with cops

A high-speed chase through New Brighton ended in a car crash and a shootout with the police, all while the victim of an alleged hijacking was still locked in the boot of the vehicle at the centre of the commotion.

The incident took place late on Saturday night while New Brighton police were conducting a multidisciplinary operation shortly before midnight.

As part of the operation, police officers were patrolling in an area known as Mahambehlala at about 11.20pm, when a white VW Polo with five occupants driving through the side streets of the Bay township raised suspicion.

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg said the members had approached the vehicle in Seyisi Street, but the allegedly sped off, prompting the police to give chase.

“A high-speed chase ensued and New Brighton police members called for [back up].

“As they approached the intersection of Mavuso and Seyisi streets, the driver of the Polo lost control and [crashed the vehicle] into a wall.”

Janse van Rensburg said three people emerged from the wreckage and allegedly opened fire at the police as they tried to flee.

One suspect was arrested, allegedly in possession of a firearm, while the driver was still stuck inside the vehicle.

He was then also arrested.

“While members were busy on the scene, they heard a noise coming from the boot of the vehicle.

“Upon further investigation, a man crawled out from the boot through the back seat and informed the [police] members that he had been hijacked,” Janse van Rensburg said. 

The arrested suspects will appear in the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of hijacking, kidnapping and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. 

HeraldLIVE