Carjack suspect charged with list of offences

(CNS): The 23-year-old man arrested in connection with a gunpoint carjacking in George Town last week has been charged with driving whilst disqualified, driving without insurance, dangerous driving, taking and driving away a vehicle without the owner’s consent and threats to kill. Matthew Whittaker is expected in court today accused of being the man who stole a Honda Civic at gunpoint at around 6pm on Tuesday, 17 September, near the Red Cross buildingin Huldah Avenue. A police patrol gave chase after receiving the report of the carjack but the road chase was halted and the RCIPS helicopter tracked the car to Midland Acres, where the suspect was arrested.

Police explained that the car had been travelling at speeds of up to 80mph along Shamrock Road, weaving in and out of traffic, and so, in line with the RCIPS pursuit policy and concerns about public safety, the critical incident manager took the decision to stand down the road pursuit and instead use the Air Support Unit.

The helicopter crew was able to maintain visual contact on the car as it continued into the Midland Acres area, where it swerved off the road. The suspect ran into a nearby yard and bushes but the helicopter crew guided Uniformed Support Group (USG) officers to the suspect’s hiding place, when he was arrested on suspicion of possession of an unlicensed firearm.

It is not yet clear why no charges have been brought regarding possession of a firearm, as Whittaker was alleged to have had a handgun, which he reportedly used to threaten the owner of the car before taking the vehicle. Enquiries have been made with the RCIPS and CNS is awaiting comment.