KIDNAPPING SUSPECT ARRESTED, VICTIMS RESCUED!

A 47-year-old man has been arrested and two kidnapping victims rescued following a dramatic police chase that ended with a vehicle overturning in Pretoria.

The incident began on 21 August when police received information about the hijacking of an Omoda motor vehicle and the kidnapping of an Indian man and woman in Centurion.

The hijacked vehicle was later abandoned in Atteridgeville, while the suspects allegedly continued with the victims in a black Audi towards Pretoria.

Police spotted the Audi travelling at high speed along the R80 Highway near Soshanguve, triggering a pursuit towards Pretoria North.

The chase ended near the Areyeng Bus Station in Paul Kruger Street when the driver lost control and the vehicle overturned. The suspects fled on foot amid an exchange of gunfire with police, while the two victims escaped from the vehicle and ran to safety.

Police launched an extensive search of the bus station premises. At about 1:35am, security guards alerted officers after spotting a man fleeing from one of the buildings. Police gave chase and arrested one suspect.

A search allegedly uncovered a black 7.5-calibre pistol with its serial number filed off, along with a 9mm magazine containing live ammunition.

The firearm has been sent for forensic testing as investigators probe possible links to other crimes.

The suspect faces charges including possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, hijacking, kidnapping and possession of a hijacked vehicle.

Police are continuing the search for the second suspect and investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.