The Gauteng Traffic Police Public Transport Intervention Unit arrested fourteen (14) suspects following an incident where public transport operators and passengers were held hostage in Orlando yesterday. The suspects are alleged to be members belonging to one of the local taxi associations as well as five of their security personnel.
The suspects allegedly held two luxury busses hostage with the assistance of their security personnel, pointing firearms at drivers and passengers and demanded R5000 from each bus for the release thereof.
Gauteng Traffic police spokesperson Sello Maremane said the arrested suspects have been detained at Orlando Police station and are expected to face charges relating to pointing of firearms, armed robbery, illegal possession of firearms and impersonating the duties of a traffic police officer.
“About four rifles, five handguns and live ammunition were confiscated by the Gauteng Traffic Police. Two of their vehicles that were used in the commission of this crime were also impounded as part of evidence in a court of law,” said Maremane.
The Gauteng Traffic Police has in recent time’s confiscated illegal firearms to ensure that Gauteng communities are and feel secure.
“Illegal firearms are the largest contributor to serious and violent crimes. The Gauteng Traffic Police will continue with operations such as cordon and searches, roadblocks and vehicle check points with a view to rid Gauteng communities of these weapons,” said Maremane,
“The Gauteng Traffic Police will deal decisively with any unbecoming behaviour that continues to threaten the peace and stability of the taxi industry. Anyone found terrorizing public transport operators and impersonating the duties of a traffic officer will be severely punished,” added Maremane.
