LIMPOPO – A high-stakes anti-smuggling operation in Limpopo turned violent this week, resulting in a shootout that left a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS) injured. The operation, a joint effort aimed at curbing cross-border crime, led to the recovery of a stolen Mercedes-Benz and the arrest of two suspects.
The incident unfolded along the N1 highway in Botlokwa, where police officers intercepted two vehicles – a Mercedes-Benz C200 and an Audi A3 – believed to be en route to Zimbabwe via the Beitbridge border post. The vehicles, according to provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, were stolen during a business robbery in Boksburg, Gauteng, on August 12th.
"Information indicated that the suspects intended to smuggle the vehicles into Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge border post," said Mashaba.
Acting on this intelligence, a tactical team was deployed to intercept the vehicles. As police attempted to stop the vehicles, the occupants of the Audi A3 opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.
"As police attempted to stop them, the occupants of the Audi opened fire, sparking a shootout in which one police officer was wounded," Mashaba confirmed.
Despite the life-threatening situation, the joint law enforcement team demonstrated remarkable courage and professionalism, continuing the operation under intense pressure.
Mashaba commended the officers, stating that they "displayed bravery and professionalism", continuing with the operation under life-threatening conditions.
While the Audi A3 managed to evade capture, the Mercedes-Benz was successfully cornered by the police. Two suspects, a 25-year-old South African male and a 48-year-old foreign national from Zimbabwe, were apprehended at the scene. The recovered Mercedes-Benz is valued at approximately R700,000.
Cases of attempted murder and possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle have been opened at the Botlokwa police station. The arrested duo is scheduled to appear before the Sekgosese Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
The provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has lauded the joint law enforcement team for their unwavering commitment and bravery.
"This operation is a true reflection of the power of collaboration between our provincial teams, national detectives, and the private security sector," said Hadebe. "Our members displayed extraordinary courage in the face of danger, and we wish the injured officer a speedy recovery."
Hadebe issued a stern warning to criminal syndicates, emphasising the SAPS's determination to combat crime at all levels. "Criminal syndicates must know that whether at provincial or national level, SAPS will remain united and relentless in the fight against crime," she declared.
A manhunt has been launched to apprehend the assailants who escaped in the Audi A3. Police are urging community members with any information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola on 082 749 2233, Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or their nearest police station. Information can also be shared via the My SAPS App.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating cross-border crime and vehicle smuggling syndicates operating in the region.
In a separate incident in July, a 34-year-old man, Solomon Chiloane, appeared before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo after being arrested for possessing a suspected stolen vehicle. Chiloane was apprehended after police received information about a stolen Toyota Hilux bakkie, which had been reported stolen in the Lyttleton policing area in Tshwane.
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