Suspects arrested after high speed chase

DAWNCREST – Two (2) men were arrested following a high speed chase and intense low level aerial search in Dawncrest yesterday morning.

A member of Reaction Unit South Africa was on patrol on Fairview Drive in Brindhaven at approximately 09:42 when he witnessed a white Toyota Quantum opening fire and attempting to force a branded Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) vehicle off the road. Officers returned fired during the chase. The Reaction Officer contacted the RUSA Operations Centre via radio requesting additional backup & to assist Police in the chase.

The mini bus came to a sudden halt on Robin Street in Dawncrest – KZN. Two men exited the vehicle and fled in different directions. A 23 year old male was apprehended on Nightingale Circle. He explained that he was the conductor in the taxi and today was his first day of employment.

The RUSA Robinson R44 Helicopter lifted off immediately and conducted a low level flight of a bush in search of the mini bus driver. Down wash from the main rotors of the aircraft exposed the suspect hiding in dense vegetation. He was immediately arrested by Reaction Officers and RTI Officers.

During an interview, the 24 year old driver explained that an unroadworthy mini bus he was driving on Monday was impounded by Police. His employer reprimanded him and allegedly instructed him not to stop for authorities in future. He therefore fled, jumped a red robot and drove in a wreckless manner when Police attempted to stop him yesterday.