By STAFF REPORTER
6 April 2026 – The police in Rustenburg have made a significant breakthrough following the arrest of two suspects aged 46 and 49, linked to a hijacking and kidnapping incident. The police said on Friday morning, 3 April 2026, a truck driver (38) was enroute to deliver diesel worth more than R30 000 to a depot in Rustenburg.
The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said upon arrival, the driver alighted from the truck and was approached by an unknown man who appeared to be the person designated to assist him at the depot. Bobelo said the situation quickly escalated when the suspect produced a firearm and ordered the driver back into the truck.
“The victim complied and the armed suspect entered the vehicle with him. At the same time, two additional suspects also boarded the truck and the victim was forced to drive off with all three suspects inside.
“Without the suspects knowing, the victim managed to activate a panic button, which triggered an alert received by members of the Cash-In-Transit (CIT) Task Team. Acting swiftly on the information, the team traced the vehicle to Ramochana village, near Rustenburg,” he said.
Bobelo further said upon arrival, members found the victim still inside the truck with the suspects. He added that one suspect fled the scene, while the remaining two suspects were arrested on the spot.
“The two suspects have been charged with hijacking and kidnapping and are expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday,” said Bobelo.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the team for their swift response and professionalism in averting further harm. Naidoo reiterated that individuals involved in such serious crimes will face the full might of the law.
The Guardian 