POLOKWANE – Law enforcement in Limpopo has made significant strides in combating cross-border vehicle smuggling, with a series of arrests and recoveries of stolen vehicles destined for Zimbabwe. The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court has remanded 43-year-old Zimbabwean national Mhlalisi Moyo in custody after he was apprehended in Limpopo for possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle.
According to provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, Moyo appeared in court on Friday, and his case has been postponed to 29 May for a formal bail application.
Moyo's arrest occurred during a joint operation involving the SAPS anti-smuggling task team, Tshimollo Security and Investigation, Reflex Anti-hijacking Security, and Tracker SA. "The Toyota RAV4 was intercepted at approximately 8 pm (on Wednesday) near Shell Ultra City in Polokwane on the N1 highway," Mashaba stated. The sport utility vehicle had been reported stolen in Brooklyn, Tshwane. "The 43-year-old foreign national male was arrested at the scene," Mashaba confirmed.
In a separate incident, the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court remanded 34-year-old Lucky Msizi Tshabangu in custody after he was arrested in Limpopo while driving a stolen vehicle towards Zimbabwe. Mashaba reported that Tshabangu's case was postponed to Monday to allow him to secure legal representation.
Tshabangu faces charges of possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle, as well as reckless and negligent driving after he allegedly attempted to evade police. The 34-year-old South African national was apprehended at Mokopane last week, and police believe he was en route to Zimbabwe with the stolen vehicle.
"In an intelligence-driven operation, police officers intercepted a Toyota Corolla Cross at Mokopane CBD on the R101, which was en route to the Beitbridge port of entry," Mashaba explained. "Investigations revealed that this vehicle had been reported stolen from the Wierdabrug policing area in Tshwane on Friday (16 May 2025)."
Adding to the string of arrests, two young women, aged 19 and 20, are scheduled to appear before a Limpopo court on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, facing charges of possession of a suspected stolen vehicle, a Toyota Hilux GD-6 bakkie.
Mashaba reported that the vehicle was intended to be driven across the Beitbridge port of entry into neighbouring Zimbabwe on Sunday, 18 May 2025. "In a coordinated anti-smuggling operation involving SAPS Anti-Smuggling Team, Tshimollo Security and Investigation, and Reflex Anti-Hijacking Security, the officers intercepted a Toyota Hilux GD-6 double cab on the R101 near Polokwane weighbridge," Mashaba stated following the duo's arrest.
"During the stop, one male suspect fled into nearby bushes, while two female suspects attempted to escape but were apprehended after a foot chase," Mashaba added.
Preliminary police investigations have revealed that the Toyota Hilux GD-6 was stolen on Friday, 16 May 2025, around Garsfontein in Pretoria East.
These recent successes highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat cross-border vehicle smuggling and disrupt criminal networks operating in the region. The Beitbridge border post, a major transit point between South Africa and Zimbabwe, has long been a hotspot for illegal activities, including vehicle smuggling.
The recovery of these stolen vehicles represents a significant victory for law enforcement and sends a strong message to those involved in these illicit activities. The vigilance and coordination of the various law enforcement units involved have been instrumental in these successes.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, has lauded the dedication and effectiveness of the law enforcement units involved in these operations. "The recovery of these twelve vehicles represents a significant blow to these criminal networks. Our officers and their partners continue to work tirelessly to dismantle these syndicates that threaten our communities and economy," she said.
The fight against vehicle smuggling requires a multi-faceted approach, involving not only law enforcement agencies but also community involvement and collaboration with neighbouring countries. Strengthening border security, enhancing intelligence gathering, and implementing stricter vehicle registration and verification processes are crucial steps in preventing these crimes.
The economic impact of vehicle smuggling is significant, as it deprives the country of revenue, undermines legitimate businesses, and fuels other criminal activities. The recovery of these stolen vehicles helps to protect the interests of law-abiding citizens and businesses.
The ongoing investigations into these cases are expected to uncover more details about the criminal networks involved and lead to further arrests. Law enforcement agencies are committed to pursuing these criminals and bringing them to justice.
The successful operations in Limpopo serve as a reminder that cross-border crime is a serious threat that requires constant vigilance and collaboration. By working together, law enforcement agencies, communities, and neighbouring countries can effectively combat these crimes and create a safer and more secure environment for all.
The suspects are expected to appear in court in the coming days, where they will face charges related to vehicle theft and smuggling. The courts will determine their fate based on the evidence presented and the applicable laws.
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