KEY POINTS
- Three suspects were arrested for possession of a stolen TLB in Limpopo.
- Community members helped police capture the third suspect.
- The suspects face multiple charges and will appear in court again on March 10.
Limpopo police arrested three suspects. They found them with a stolen Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) at a farm in Malipsdrift, Capricorn District.
Provincial Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng stated that an off-duty police officer received a tip-off.
The officer learned about a towing truck transporting a stolen TLB along the Mathabatha to Lekgwareng Road on Sunday after 10 p.m.
IOL reported that the officer immediately alerted visible policing and detective units. The units responded swiftly and intercepted the truck.
Additionally, the police questioned the driver and passenger. They failed to provide a valid explanation for transporting the TLB and only stated that someone had hired them to move the vehicle.
However, further investigations confirmed that the TLB was stolen and valued at approximately R850,000. The police immediately arrested two suspects, aged 29 and 32.
Third suspect caught with help from the community
As the police continued their investigation, a third suspect was identified and later arrested with assistance from local community members.
Also, the suspects have been identified as Puleng Hendrick Peta, 29, Ronald Moratladi, 31, and Josias Chauke Modiba, 26.
Authorities have charged Peta and Moratladi with business robbery and possession of stolen property, while Modiba faces business robbery charges.
They appeared before the Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday and are set to return on March 10, 2025, for a formal bail application.
Community and police cooperation praised
Limpopo’s Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the quick response from law enforcement officers. Additionally, he highlighted the crucial role of community members in helping capture the third suspect.
“This incident underscores the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to curb crime.
We encourage continued collaboration between the police and the community as we work towards enhancing safety in our district,” said Hadebe.
Authorities continue to urge residents to report suspicious activity and assist in crime-fighting efforts to prevent further incidents of vehicle theft and related crimes.
