Hawks Nab French Fugitive Father And Son In Pretoria Sting As They Plot River Escape To Zimbabwe

A father and son wanted for alleged crimes against the state in Benin and France have been arrested by Hawks in an intelligence-driven operation in Brooklyn, Pretoria.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) confirmed that three suspects were taken into custody on 13 April 2026 during a sting operation at a shopping centre.

The suspects have been identified as Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, 45, his son Khonsou Seba Capo Chichi, 18, and their alleged facilitator François van der Merwe.

They face charges relating to conspiracy to commit a crime and contravention of the Immigration Act.

Hawks Uncover Alleged Escape Plan via Limpopo River

Police spokesperson Katlego Mogale said the arrests followed coordinated intelligence gathering.

“The accused, a father and son duo, as well as the facilitator, were nabbed in a sting operation at a shopping centre in Pretoria when the multi-disciplinary team followed up on information received,” Mogale said.

Investigators uncovered an alleged plan by the duo to flee South Africa by crossing the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe, with the intention of eventually travelling to Europe.

According to Mogale, the alleged facilitator had been paid about R250 000 to assist with the escape.

“The intelligence purported that the duo were being assisted by an individual who had been paid approximately R250 000 to assist the duo to move across the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe with the intention to further proceed to Europe,” Mogale said.

Interpol Confirms Fugitive Status as Extradition Looms

Preliminary investigations revealed that Stellio Capo Chichi is allegedly a wanted fugitive in both France and Benin. Working with Interpol, authorities confirmed his status.

“The Hawks, through the assistance of Interpol, can confirm that Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi is indeed a wanted fugitive in Benin in relation to crimes against the state,” Mogale stated.

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During the arrest, officers confiscated cellphones and approximately R318 000 in cash, which are expected to form part of the ongoing investigation.

The trio briefly appeared in the Brooklyn Magistrate’s Court on 15 April 2026. The case has been postponed to 20 April, with all three remaining in custody.

Extradition proceedings have been initiated against the elder Capo Chichi as authorities move to address outstanding international warrants.