The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has applauded the Provincial Investigations Unit, Tracking Team, and private security company Tshimollo Security and Investigation for their dedication and commitment, that led to the apprehension of five suspects aged between 33 and 47 on Monday, 13 April 2026.
Following a spate of business robberies, which occurred mainly on Sunday nights and Monday mornings across the province, an intelligence-driven operation was conducted on Monday, 13 April 2026, to trace suspects who were possibly involved in these criminal activities.
Intelligence was received that some of the suspects were seen at the Lebowakgomo shopping complex, driving a blue BMW 3 Series with five occupants. The operational team then pounced on the said vehicle.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects committed business burglary in the Apel policing area. During the search of the vehicle, housebreaking equipment was found. A further search led to the discovery of balaclavas, hand gloves, and some stolen groceries.
Five suspects, aged between 33 and 47, were arrested. Three of the suspects are South African males, while two are Zimbabwean nationals who are in the country illegally.
The BMW the suspects were driving, was also seized as an instrument used in the commission of a crime.
Intelligence was also received that some of the stolen items were sold to local businessmen in Apel. Upon arrival at the premises, the stock was found, and a 44-year-old Bangladeshi national was arrested for possession of and receiving stolen goods, in terms of the General Law Amendment Act 62 of 1955. It was also established that the suspect is in the country illegally. A further charge of contravention of the Immigration Act was added.
The suspects will appear before the Sekhukhune Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.
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