KEY POINTS
- Two suspects, aged 37, were arrested in a high-impact operation for alleged involvement in hijacking, kidnapping, and armed robbery across Sekhukhune district.
- One suspect was caught with illegal firearms and ammunition, while the alleged mastermind was apprehended in Mpumalanga after a chase.
- The duo will face multiple charges in court, with investigations ongoing to link them to additional crimes in the region.
A three-day high-impact operation by Limpopo police has led to the arrests of two suspects linked to a series of violent crimes, including a hijacking and kidnapping incident in January.
The suspects, both aged 37, were part of a criminal network allegedly responsible for multiple cases of armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping across the Sekhukhune district.
The breakthrough came after an intensive investigation by the Sekhukhune Tracking and Investigation Team. “The suspect was found in possession of three unlicensed firearms with obliterated serial numbers, along with several rounds of live ammunition, including rifle rounds,” said Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.
Hijacking mastermind apprehended after dramatic chase in Mpumalanga
The second suspect, believed to be the mastermind behind the syndicate, was tracked down to his residence in Koedoespoort, Mpumalanga. “Upon confrontation, the suspect attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended,” Mashaba revealed.
Sowetanlive reports that a search of his property uncovered a firearm, live ammunition, and a hidden cache of additional rounds.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects have been positively linked to a January hijacking and kidnapping in Jane Furse, where victims were abducted at gunpoint before their vehicle was stolen.
The arrests have brought relief to the community, which has been plagued by a surge in violent crimes.
Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe praised the police team for their diligence, stating that the operation was a significant step in dismantling organised crime in the region.
Both suspects are expected to appear in various magistrate’s courts soon, facing charges including kidnapping, carjacking, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. Mashaba added that the pair would also be linked to additional cases under investigation by the Motetema SAPS.
The arrests come amid growing concerns over violent crime in Limpopo, with authorities urging the public to remain vigilant. Community policing forums have welcomed the breakthrough, calling for stricter bail conditions to prevent suspects from returning to criminal activities.
Meanwhile, police have appealed for anyone with further information on related crimes to come forward, assuring witnesses of protection.
