The Suzuki Swift seized by police.
Image: SAPS
Police believe they have broken the back of a syndicate involved in airport robberies following the arrest of a suspect.
Police confirmed an alleged serial robber targeting victims on the R24 near the Barbara off-ramp towards OR Tambo International Airport was apprehended.
Police also seized a Suzuki Swift believed to have been used numerous times in the commission of crimes.
National police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said the suspect was caught after robbing police officials.
“The three senior officers were making their way to the airport via an e-hailing service on Saturday afternoon, February 28, when the vehicle they were travelling in was pulled over by four males travelling in a silver Suzuki Swift.
“Once the e-hailing driver had pulled over on the side of the R24, the men posed as police officers and thereafter robbed the police general and two other officers of money, watches and cellphones,” Mathe said.
Hours later, police tracked down the vehicle and arrested the suspect.
“The vehicle has been impounded by police, and during the investigation, police found that the serial robber has 42 other cases where he was arrested and charged for armed robbery, the possession of an unlicensed firearm, fraud and impersonating a police officer. These cases date as far back as 1998,” Mathe said.
“An investigation is also underway to ascertain how a serial robber of this nature is still roaming the streets of SA and not convicted and is not serving time in a jail cell.
"Police are still searching for three other suspects who were involved in the commission of this crime,” Mathe said.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Cape Times