UPDATE: Cops nab 5 suspects after chasing hijacked vehicle to Nelson Mandela's Houghton home

JOHANNESBURG – Police have arrested five suspects linked to a case of hijacking and the recovery of an unlicensed firearm at former statesman - Nelson Mandela’s property in Houghton on Wednesday morning.

“Upon entering the property, officers recovered the hijacked vehicle and apprehended five individuals,” explained the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD)’s Xolani Fihla.

Tracking data led officers to a residence once owned by former president Nelson Mandela.

According to the JMPD, the vehicle was hijacked earlier along Louis Botha Avenue in Oaklands. 

"All five suspects have been arrested and will be detained at Norwood SAPS. They will be facing charges of possession of a hijacked motor vehicle and possession of an unlicensed firearm," added Fihla, noting the hijacking victim is safe and unharmed.

Editors note: Eyewitness News previously reported that four suspects were arrested on Wednesday.