An alert taxi driver stopped after he noticed a woman being robbed by a knife-wielding man wearing a security uniform – some brave passengers disembarked and made a citizen’s arrest.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) on Tuesday said the bogus security guard tried to run away but the taxi passengers chased after him and caught him.
Police said the 34-year-old allegedly committed the crime Treu and Crown mine road on Monday morning. It is alleged that suspect robbed a 47-year-old woman who was on her way to work.
The suspect allegedly threatened the woman with a knife and demanded her cell phone and handbag. He tried to stab the her, but his knife missed her vitals and sliced through her jacket as she fell to the ground.
Police said an alert taxi driver who was passing noticed the attack and stopped.
"Commuters gave chase," said Warrant Officer Xoli Mbele.
The suspect was caught and handed over to the police, who arrested him.
"The victim’s bag, cellphone and knife used in the commission of a crime were recovered from the suspect," said Mbele.
The suspect will appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate Court on Wednesday.
"Police would like to thank the taxi driver and the commuters who jumped out of the taxi to rescue a female," said Mbele.
– African News Agency (ANA)
