Two arrested in Soweto after hijacked Health Department vehicle and suspected human organs found

Two men have been arrested in Naledi, Soweto, after Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers allegedly uncovered a hijacked government vehicle and made the shocking discovery of suspected human organs during a crime prevention operation.

In a statement on Saturday JMPD said that Tactical Response Unit officers were conducting routine patrols on Thursday evening when they received information about a vehicle allegedly being stripped at a house on Nape Street.

When officers arrived at the property, they found the gate open and entered the yard. After receiving no response to their knocks at the front door, which was partially open, they entered the house where they found a man inside.

Police said the suspect claimed the vehicle was in the garage and belonged to the homeowner. A search of the garage revealed a white Volkswagen Caddy belonging to the National Department of Health.

A verification check confirmed that the vehicle had been hijacked and was already being stripped for parts, police said.

Officers continued searching the property and found a second suspect hiding in the backyard. Both men were arrested at the scene.

During a further search of the yard, officers allegedly discovered two buckets containing what are believed to be human organs, including hearts and lungs.

The suspects have been detained at Naledi police station and are facing charges of possession of a hijacked vehicle and possession of suspected human organs.

Police said investigations are continuing to determine the origin of the organs and to locate the homeowner.

The JMPD has praised the officers involved for their vigilance and swift response during the operation.