Three suspects believed to be behind serious crimes across the district apprehended

GA-MAPHOPHA – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Sekhukhune district, acting on information, nabbed three suspects linked to two business robbery incidents that occurred on Monday, 26 February at Ga-Rantho Village.

Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson, revealed that the arrests were made during a meticulously planned tactical operation conducted in the early hours of the morning last Tuesday.

Ledwaba indicated that the multidisciplinary operation started following extensive information gathering. “This effort pinpointed one of the suspect’s location in Ga-Maphophoa Village. Upon searching the premises, officers recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. The other two suspects, including the driver of the getaway vehicle, were also arrested in the vicinity,” explained Ledwaba.

He pointed out that on the day of the incidents, four suspects, three wearing facemasks, stormed into a spaza shop and pointed the owner and employees with firearms. “The suspects made off with cash, cigarettes as well as cellphones. They proceeded to the nearby hardware and also robbed the store of an undisclosed amount of cash. They ran on foot to a secluded spot where the getaway vehicle was waiting and tried to flee the scene. Members of the community gave chase and the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. Later on, the driver reported a false case of carjacking,” said Ledwaba.

He mentioned that the suspects are believed to be part of a group involved in serious crimes across the district.

The Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe described the recovery of the weapon as a critical step in ensuring the safety of communities and preventing further criminal activities.

“Their arrest disrupts a pattern of criminality that has plagued our business community, bringing a sense of relief and security to the affected areas,” concluded Hadebe.

The suspects, aged between 30 and 31 are facing charges related to business robbery, possession of illegal firearm and perjury.

Police appeal to anyone with information about the other suspects to contact Investigating Officer, Sergeant Mashobotlwane Molokwane at 076 215 7220, the crime stop number 08600 10111 or the nearest police station. They can also send information using the MySAPSApp.