
During the early hours of of 24 August 2020, approximately five suspected criminals had to flee from the scene after their plan to hijack a vehicle backfired on them.
It is alleged that at about 01:30 am, Port Elizabeth Flying Squad members were performing duties in an unmarked police vehicle when they noticed a group of 5 males running towards them.
The Police were stationary at the robots on Commercial Road in Sidwell close to N2 on ramp.
One suspect pointed a firearm at them and the Police officer swiftly reacted and fired shots at the suspects, who scattered in various directions.
A thorough search of the area was conducted but they could not be found. A cellphone belonging to one of the suspect’s was dropped as he was running.
Police suspect that their motive was to hijack them. A case of attempted hijacking is under investigation.
Police are warning drivers to always be alert irrespective of the time of day whenever they approach or are stationary at the robots.