“Force Her into the Boot”: Off-Duty Cop Critically Injured in Brazen Hijacking

An off-duty police officer is fighting for her life in the Eastern Cape after two armed hijackers launched a vicious attack in broad daylight on Sunday. The incident, which unfolded outside a shop on a busy Humansdorp street corner, saw the assailants allegedly attempt to force the female officer into the boot of her own vehicle.

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, the attack occurred around 5:20 PM at the corner of Du Plessis Street and Main Road. Two armed men targeted the officer, leading to a violent struggle. The situation only de-escalated with the rapid arrival of private armed response units and SAPS patrol vehicles.

One Arrested, One on the Run

During the confrontation, an 18-year-old suspect was apprehended at the scene. He is scheduled to appear in the Humansdorp Magistrate’s Court today facing a string of serious charges: attempted hijacking, attempted kidnapping, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and contravention of the Firearms Control Act.

The second suspect managed to flee and remains at large. Police have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest, directing tips to Detective Warrant Officer Zuan Nepgen or Crime Stop.

Separate Major Firearms Bust in Gauteng

In a unrelated but significant operation, Gauteng police have arrested a 36-year-old man in Roodepoort after finding a high-powered arsenal in his home. Officers from the Organised Crime Tracing Team discovered an AK-47 rifle, a .308 semi-automatic rifle, and more than eighty rounds of ammunition.

The suspect faces charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition and is expected to appear in the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court soon.

The attack on the officer in Humansdorp has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the peril police face even when off duty and the brazen nature of violent crime. As the injured officer battles for recovery, the hunt for her second attacker intensifies, a stark reminder of the ongoing threat faced by those who serve and protect.