Limpopo police have made significant progress in their ongoing operations to crack down on smuggling activities. In a recent operation, two men were arrested and a stolen vehicle worth over R1 million was recovered.
The arrests were made by members of the provincial tracking team, in collaboration with private security companies.
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According to Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the Limpopo police spokesperson, the Toyota Prado sport utility vehicle was intercepted while being smuggled into neighbouring Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge Border Post.
The vehicle was being escorted by another vehicle, which was spotted by the police near Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. When the police attempted to stop the vehicles, the drivers tried to flee but were eventually apprehended along the R71 bypass after a car chase. It was discovered that the two suspects did not possess valid driver’s licenses.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle had been hijacked in Brooklyn, east of Pretoria, just a few days prior to the arrest. Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, emphasised the commitment of the police force in eliminating smuggling activities.
Hadebe stated, “We are dedicated to eradicating the illegal smuggling of goods into and out of South Africa. Our units and stakeholders will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
The two suspects, aged 26 and 27, are facing multiple charges, including possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle, contravention of the Immigration Act, driving without a valid driver’s license, and reckless and negligent driving. They are scheduled to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
This successful operation highlights the dedication of the Limpopo police in their efforts to combat smuggling and ensure the safety and security of the province.
