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The South African Police Service in Limpopo has recorded yet another significant breakthrough in the fight against vehicle-related crimes following a major multi-disciplinary operation conducted in the Modjadjiskloof policing area under the Mopani District on Wednesday, 19 November 2025.
The Provincial Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU), together with a range of specialised SAPS units and private sector partners, executed an intelligence-driven vehicle crime operation targeting a suspected scrapyard linked to illicit vehicle activities.
Information was received about suspicious activities at a scrapyard near Modjadjiskloof, prompting a coordinated operational response. A total of 80 vehicles were examined, resulting in seven vehicles being seized for further investigation.
The seized vehicles include:
1. Two Isuzu KB bakkies reported stolen in Westenburg in February 2021, both with Gauteng registration numbers.
2. A gold VW Polo, reported stolen in Hebron in 2023.
3. A blue Renault Sandero, reported stolen in Westenburg in 2021.
4. A gold Ford Ranger, belonging to a financial institution after the owner defaulted on instalments.
5. A white Ford Ranger, linked to a business robbery committed in Putfontein in 2023.
6. A white Nissan NP300, reported stolen in Thohoyandou in 2025.
During the operation, the owner of the scrapyard was not found on the premises. Police have since intensified investigations to trace and apprehend the owner. All seized vehicles were confiscated for further forensic and investigative processes.
Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has commended the collaborative effort:
“This successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated policing and the strong partnerships we have built with the private sector. Vehicle crime syndicates continue to undermine the safety and economic stability of our communities, and we will not relent in dismantling these networks. I applaud all teams and stakeholders involved for their professionalism and commitment.”
Investigations are continuing.