Four alleged hijackers in Mandela house scandal appear in court

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Four accused appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, charged for allegedly robbing an Uber driver and stealing his vehicle in the area of Houghton.

The accused face charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping and assault. The state alleges that on 8 January 2025, the four individuals 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. 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.

Source: NPA

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