A multi-unit operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) led to a significant arrest in New Brighton on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, recovering a hijacked vehicle, two illegal firearms, and a cellphone signal jamming device.
The breakthrough was the result of a collaboration between the SAPS Crime Combating Unit (CCU) and the SAPS Airwing. The operation was initiated after CCU members acted on information about a sighting of a hijacked white Isuzu bakkie, which was believed to be potentially linked to other serious crimes, including robberies and hijackings, travelling towards New Brighton.
To aid in the search, the SAPS Airwing deployed a helicopter to scour the New Brighton area. The suspect vehicle was successfully spotted from the air in Gqamlana Street.
“With close contact between the Airwing and members on the ground, the vehicle and a 38-year-old suspect were apprehended,” a police spokesperson stated.
The suspect was found outside the vehicle and was carrying two bags. A subsequent search of the Isuzu bakkie led to the discovery and confiscation of two firearms—a .38 Special revolver and a 9mm pistol—as well as a cellphone signal jamming device.
It was confirmed that the bakkie, which had been fitted with false number plates, was hijacked earlier in November in Ikamvelihle. Police suspect the vehicle was used in the commission of other serious crimes within the Nelson Mandela Bay area. The vehicle has been confiscated and sent for further forensic analysis.
The 38-year-old suspect has been arrested on charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal possession of a signal jamming device, and possession of a hijacked vehicle.
The SAPS confirmed that further investigation is underway, and they are hopeful that more arrests will follow soon.