Suspect linked to murder of e-hailing driver arrested

Share the Article:

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has arrested a suspect in connection with the tragic murder of an e-hailing driver in Berea, Johannesburg.

This follows a joint operation by the JMPD Tactical Response Unit and the SAPS Gauteng Tracking Team which led to the arrest of the suspect at Jabulani Hostel in Soweto on Thursday.

The 26-year-old male suspect was identified based on information received regarding the fatal shooting incident that occurred on Lilly and Olivia Streets in Berea, JMPD spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla, confirmed.

He said acting on this information, the operational team conducted a focused operation at the Jabulani Hostel, where the suspect was believed to be hiding.

“Upon searching the identified room, the suspect was found sleeping and was immediately apprehended.

“He was positively identified as matching the description obtained from surveillance footage and was still wearing the same clothing as seen at the crime scene.

“During the arrest, an unlicensed firearm, a magazine, and 10 live rounds of ammunition were seized from the suspect’s possession,” he added.

Charge of murder

Fihla stated that the suspect has been detained at Jabulani SAPS and is currently facing charges related to the murder of the e-hailing driver and he is due to appear in court soon.

The City of Johannesburg Public Safety MMC, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku commended law enforcement agencies for the swift action and encouraged continued collaboration to combat crime.

ALSO READ | Two education department staffers arrested for fake matric certificates

He continued; “We commend the collaborative efforts of the JMPD TRU unit and the SAPS Gauteng Tracking Team in bringing this dangerous individual to justice.

“This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring justice and safety for all residents and visitors to Johannesburg,”