SMASH AND CRASH

SMASH AND CRASH

Cops bots with City vehicle while chasing Elsies ‘Uber robbertjies’

IT WAS chaos on the corner of Owen Road and Clare Street in Elsies River when smash-and-grabbers sent police on a wild chase, causing them to crash into a City of Cape Town van.

The incident took place on Tuesday around 1pm, causing minor to severe injuries to officials.

According to residents, the area is a hotspot for “Uber robbertjies” who target cars and e-hailing vehicles.

The residents claim that the incident was caused when robbers tried to rob an e-hailing driver but went on the run when cops arrived on the scene.

When the officers tried to chase down the suspects, they crashed into a City of Cape Town quantum.

The street had to be cordoned off as authorities attended to the scene and the injured victims.

Members of police were rushed to a hospital in Pinelands and officials of the City of Cape Town had to be admitted to a hospital in Kuils River for medical attention.

Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed that a reckless and negligent driving case is under investigation.

Van Wyk explained: “Ravensmead police registered a reckless and negligent driving case following an accident on Tuesday, 14 October at 1.10pm, at the corner of Owen Road and Clare Street involving a police LDV.“

Circumstances surrounding this accident are under investigation. Four members (the occupants of the police vehicle) were taken to a hospital in Pinelands, and the injured occupants of the Toyota Quantum were taken to a hospital in Kuils River. Investigations continue.”

Spokesperson for the City of Cape Town Traffic Services, Kevin Jacobs, confirmed that one City official sustained serious injuries.

He added: “The Traffic Services can confirm a motor vehicle accident on Owen Drive and 35th Avenue in Elsies River Tuesday afternoon.

“A SAPS vehicle collided with a City vehicle after the driver of the SAPS vehicle lost control during an apparent pursuit of suspects.”

Community leader Steve Ross urged motorists to be on the lookout when driving through Elsies River.

He warned: “The intersections on Owen Road, including Donegal Avenue, Clare Street, and 35th Street, are high-risk hotspots in Elsies River.

“Daily smash-and-grab and Uber robberies are reported through the night and broad daylight. These roaming youth are protected by their family and some community members, who most probably benefit directly from the sale of the stolen items.

“We are asking residents, the good ones, to please report any suspicious behaviour even before there are any incidents where innocent people can be physically harmed in an altercation with those thugs.

“We urge drivers to keep their valuables hidden and to roll up their windows and lock their doors. Also mute the radio to not be distracted when passing there.”

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed what transpired to please call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.