The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that members of the National Intervention Unit (NIU) successfully stopped a hijacking attempt involving a G20-hired vehicle on Friday evening, 21 November 2025. The incident happened along Empire Road in Johannesburg, where NIU members were on patrol as part of security measures for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
According to SAPS, a carjacker jumped into the road and pointed what looked like a firearm at the driver of the vehicle. The suspect did not know that the vehicle was carrying NIU officers. One of the NIU members fired a shot, wounding the suspect in the upper body.
It was later discovered that the weapon used by the hijacker was an imitation firearm. The suspect was taken to hospital under police guard and will face a charge of attempted hijacking once he is fit to appear in court.
SAPS reminded the public that using a replica or imitation firearm to commit a crime is considered a serious offence. Under the Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act No. 60 of 2000), pointing any object that could make a person believe it is a real firearm is also a criminal act.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) warned that all security agencies remain alert during the G20 Summit. They emphasised that anyone trying to disrupt security will face strict action.
NATJOINTS also said they are satisfied with the strong security measures in place to ensure the G20 Leaders’ Summit runs smoothly.
What's Your Reaction?
