On Tuesday, at approximately 13h00, Marshall Security’s Special Operations Team received information regarding a theft of a motor vehicle that had occurred earlier that day at a residence on Chapel Road in the Botha’s Hill area. The suspects allegedly arrived at the property in a white Mazda CX-3 before stealing a silver Toyota Etios that was parked outside the premises and fleeing the scene.
Following the alert, Marshall Security’s Special Operations Team (SOT) immediately mobilised and began monitoring key escape routes. At approximately 13h30, members patrolling the N2 spotted two vehicles matching the provided descriptions, a white Mazda travelling in convoy with a silver Toyota Etios, heading at high speed in the direction of Umlazi.
A high speed pursuit begun. As the vehicles approached the Umlazi off-ramp, the stolen Toyota Etios continued along the N2 while the Mazda exited the freeway. Members made a tactical decision to continue following the Mazda. As the suspects entered the off-ramp intersection, the Mazda lost control and collided with a road barrier, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
As officers approached, the suspects attempted to flee and a shootout ensued. During the confrontation, three suspects were successfully arrested at the scene. One suspect sustained a gunshot wound and received medical attention.
Further investigations confirmed that the stolen Toyota Etios was fitted with a Matrix tracking unit. Matrix Tracking members, together with the Umlazi K9 Unit, conducted a coordinated search operation and later recovered the vehicle abandoned in Umlazi G Section.
A search of the suspects’ Mazda revealed that the vehicle was fitted with false registration plates. Its original registration was later established. Officers also recovered numerous car-breaking implements, multiple vehicle computer boxes, and an unlicensed firearm, all of which were seized as evidence.
The scene was secured, and all relevant role players, including Isipingo SAPS Trio Crimes, Umlazi K9, ET Security, and Matrix Tracking, attended. The suspects are believed to be linked to multiple theft-of-motor-vehicle and hijacking incidents across the greater Durban area.
All suspects and recovered exhibits were handed over to SAPS for further investigation and proceedings.
This operation highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing, rapid response, and strong collaboration between private security, tracking companies, and SAPS in tackling organised vehicle-related crime.
