Sergeants Wayne Snyders and Andrea Sinclair, two off-duty Western Cape police band members, displayed remarkable duty and commitment by apprehending a suspected hijacker. The incident occurred after they performed at the Quarterly Provincial Sports Day in Pinelands.
A High-Speed Chase
While driving home along Spine Road, the off-duty officers noticed a high-speed chase involving a City of Cape Town Law Enforcement officer and a suspect in a black Ford Fiesta. The suspect was getting away, so the off-duty officers sprang into action, placing themselves on-duty to pursue the fleeing vehicle.
The Pursuit
The pursuit continued along Old Faure Road, where the determined officers managed to keep up with the suspect. In an attempt to evade the officers, the suspect lost control of his vehicle, hitting the curb and deflating three of the four tires, effectively stopping the car.
Apprehension
The suspect abandoned the disabled vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. However, Sergeants Snyders and Sinclair continued the chase. Before the suspect could vanish into a residential area, Snyders was able to catch up with him and apprehend him.
Discovery of a Firearm
During the pursuit, Sinclair observed the suspect discarding an object, later revealed to be a firearm and ammunition. After backtracking along the chase route, the officers discovered a 9mm pistol and 13 rounds of ammunition in the street.
Charges Filed
Further investigation revealed that the black Ford Fiesta driven by the suspect had been stolen during a hijacking in Mitchell’s Plain earlier. The 23-year-old suspect now faces charges related to possession of presumably stolen property, possession of a prohibited firearm, and illegal possession of ammunition. He is set to appear in the Kuilsrivier Magistrates’ Court once charged.
Commendation and Restoration of Trust
Police management commended the off-duty officers for their exceptional efforts in apprehending the suspect, subsequently removing a potential threat from society. Their actions exemplify the dedication of the Western Cape police force and the willingness of its members to go the extra mile to ensure the safety of the community.
The heroic actions of Snyders and Sinclair not only showcase the dedication and commitment of the SAPS members but also contribute to restoring the trust of the community in their police force. Their act of placing themselves in harm’s way and on-duty in the face of danger serves as a testament to their unwavering sense of duty and responsibility in serving and protecting the public.
