Police on Saturday said they have launched a manhunt for the armed men who hijacked a Toyota Hilux bakkie belonging to Mpumalanga Human Settlements MEC Speedy Mashilo.
Police Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said the incident occurred on Thursday, 11 November, when Mashilo was driving his Toyota Hilux bakkie on the R568 road between Ekangala and KwaMhlanga at around 12:00.
Mashilo, who is also the regional chairperson of the African National Congress in Mpumalanga, was overtaken by a BMW sedan.
Mashilo recalls that only the driver was visible until two other men who had been hiding in the car appeared pointing guns at him.
Mashilo was forced to stop before he was dispossessed of his car.
He was ordered at gunpoint into his assailants’ car. They drove off with the MEC.
The hijackers then drove towards East Rand with him. They then went into a particular house in a township, where they took him into another car.
Later on, the hijackers drove towards Olifantsfontein (Tembisa) and dropped Mashilo off at a secluded area at around 20:00.
“He walked to a nearby road, where he was assisted by a passing-by security vehicle,” recounted Brigadier Mohlala.
“The armed robbers stole Mashilo’s Toyota Hilux, bank cards, brown bag (with R25 000), groceries, wallet and licensed hunting rifle with 25 rounds of ammunition.”
A case of carjacking was reported to the Olifantsfontein Police Station and transferred to Kwamhlanga.
“We appeal to members of the public who may have information to contact the nearest police station or call Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP,” said Brigadier Mohlala.
“All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.”
