Armed Robbers Steal Gold And Copper In Daylight Heist At Limpopo’s Tarentaal Airport

Police in Limpopo have launched a wide-ranging manhunt after six armed suspects carried out a brazen daylight robbery involving precious metals at Tarentaal Airport in the Letsitele policing area, Mopani District.

Tarentaal Airport is a privately run airstrip near Letsitele, regularly used for charter flights, agricultural activities and the movement of high-value cargo, including mining-related consignments.

The South African Police Service said the robbery occurred at about 09:30 on Friday. A 26-year-old man from Gauteng was on duty collecting gold and copper parcels from security company officers when he was confronted by six suspects wearing balaclavas.

The suspects allegedly robbed him of gold and copper parcels weighing approximately 21.276kg as he was walking towards a truck.

Armed Suspects Disarm Security During Airport Robbery

During the incident, two security officers were disarmed of their service firearms. Police later recovered the weapons after the suspects dropped them while fleeing the scene. Live rifle ammunition, believed to be linked to the suspects, was also confiscated.

The suspects escaped in a grey Ford Bantam bakkie and a white Hyundai Getz. Their identities are still unknown.

SAPS Launches Manhunt After Precious Metals Heist

Senior SAPS officials attended the crime scene, including Acting District Commissioner Brigadier Mary Mashila, the District Detectives Commander and the Station Commander.

They were supported by a multidisciplinary task team made up of Provincial and District Task Teams, as well as the Local Crime Record Centre (LCRC).

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that an extensive manhunt was under way and cautioned that the suspects should be regarded as armed and dangerous.

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He called on members of the public to assist police with information that could lead to arrests.

“Members of the public with information that may assist the investigation are urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or use the My SAPS App. Information may be provided anonymously.”

A case of business robbery has been opened and will be investigated by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks.