Suspected serial airport robber arrested after attack on visiting police officials
Police have arrested a 64-year-old man believed to be part of a gang responsible for dozens of armed robberies of travellers on routes to OR Tambo International Airport.
Authorities say the suspect is linked to at least 42 cases dating back to 1998.
The arrest followed the armed robbery of three senior police officials from another African country, who were travelling to the airport in an e-hailing vehicle on Saturday afternoon.
According to police, the vehicle was forced to stop by four men in a silver Suzuki Swift who allegedly posed as police officers before robbing the occupants of cash, watches and cellphones.
Within hours, investigators traced the vehicle and apprehended the suspected ringleader.
The car, believed to have been used in multiple crimes, has been impounded.
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said investigators believe the arrest is a significant breakthrough in tackling airport-route robberies.
"This arrest follows a targeted operation after the robbery of three senior police officials who were on their way to the airport. Police swiftly traced the vehicle and arrested the suspect believed to be a serial airport-following robber."
She added that the suspect faces a range of charges linked to previous cases.
"During the investigation, police established that the suspect has been arrested and charged in 42 other cases including armed robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm, fraud and impersonating a police officer. These cases date back to 1998."
Police believe the arrest may have disrupted a broader criminal network operating along airport routes.
"Investigations suggest police may have broken the back of a syndicate involved in airport-following robberies. Efforts are ongoing to locate three additional suspects who were part of the latest incident."
The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.
Police have also launched an inquiry into how a suspect linked to numerous serious offences was able to remain at large.
The South African Police Service has urged travellers to remain vigilant when travelling to and from the airport and to report suspicious vehicles or individuals posing as law enforcement officers.
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