CORRECTION: The grandson of Nelson Mandela was taken into custody but was released prior to appearing in court due to insufficient evidence.

Johannesburg – Individuals arrested in connection with the hijacking of an Uber driver appeared at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court, facing charges for robbing the driver and stealing his vehicle.

However, Nelson Mandela’s grandson, who was identified as the fifth suspect, did not show up because he was not charged with any offenses.

The hijacking occurred in the affluent Houghton area, which is also the location of Mandela’s former residence.

The court has stated that the defendants cannot be named until they have participated in an identity parade; they are charged with robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, and assault.

The prosecution alleges that earlier this week, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the suspects summoned an Uber ride but instead proceeded to rob the driver of his vehicle.

The driver alerted the tracking company, which led to an emergency notification being dispatched to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit.

The unit successfully located the hijacked vehicle at a residence in Houghton, previously owned by former President Nelson Mandela.

Upon entering the residence, officers apprehended five individuals and recovered the supposed stolen vehicle, including its license plate, and a firearm.

Furthermore, the driver reportedly lost R800 in cash along with an additional R300 from their account.

“The fifth suspect has been released due to a lack of evidence linking him to the alleged crimes,” said Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Gauteng.

“The NPA will await the conclusion of the ongoing investigations before deciding whether to proceed with prosecution.”

The case has been adjourned to January 17, 2025, for further investigation and a potential bail application.