CORRECTION: Nelson Mandela’s grandson was arrested and released before court due to insufficient evidence.
Johannesburg – The suspects arrested in connection with the hijacking of an Uber driver appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court for robbing an Uber driver and stealing his vehicle.
However, the grandson of Nelson Mandela who was arrested as a fifth suspect, was not among them because he was not charged.
The hijacking occurred in the upmarket Houghton suburb, the same area where Mandela’s house is located.
The accused, whom the court said can not be identified before they appear before an identity parade, face charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, and assault.
The state alleges that earlier this week on Wednesday, (8 January 2025), the suspects requested an Uber ride but instead allegedly robbed the driver of his vehicle.
The driver reported the incident to the tracking company, alerting the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit.
The unit tracked the hijacked vehicle to a residence in Houghton, previously owned by former President Nelson Mandela.
Upon entering the property, officers arrested five individuals and recovered the alleged stolen vehicle, its number plate, and a firearm.
The driver was also allegedly robbed of R800 in cash and an additional R300 from their account.
“The fifth suspect was released following insufficient evidence linking him to the alleged offences,” said National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane.
“The NPA will await the finalisation of outstanding investigations against them, before deciding whether they should be prosecuted.”
The case was adjourned to 17 January 2025 for further investigation and possible bail application.
