Two men were arrested following a high-speed chase and intense low-level aerial search in Dawncrest – KZN.
A member of Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) was on patrol on Fairview Drive in Brindhaven – KZN when he witnessed a white Toyota Quantum opening fire and attempting to force a branded Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) vehicle off the road. Officers returned fire during the chase.
The Reaction Officer contacted the RUSA Operations Centre via radio requesting additional backup & to assist Police in the chase. The mini-bus came to a sudden halt on Robin Street in Dawncrest – KZN. Two men exited the vehicle and fled in different directions. A 23-year-old male was apprehended on Nightingale Circle. He explained that he was the conductor in the taxi and today was his first day of employment.
The RUSA Robinson R44 Helicopter lifted off immediately and conducted a low-level flight of a bush in search of the minibus driver. Downwash from the main rotors of the aircraft exposed the suspect hiding in dense vegetation. He was immediately arrested by Reaction Officers and RTI Officers.
During an interview, the 24-year-old driver explained that an unroadworthy minibus he was driving yesterday (Monday) was impounded by Police. His employer reprimanded him and allegedly instructed him not to stop for authorities in the future.
He therefore fled, jumped a red robot, and drove in a reckless manner when Police attempted to stop him today.
