A Toyota Corolla Cross which was reported stolen in Brakpan, Gauteng, in January 2025, was intercepted on Wednesday night in Limpopo.
Image: SAPS
Police in Limpopo have intensified their fight against cross-border vehicle theft and smuggling operations, with several stolen vehicles intercepted while being driven towards the border with Zimbabwe.
Earlier this week, IOL reported that police in Limpopo announced “a significant breakthrough” with the recovery of two Toyota vehicles, valued at approximately R1.4 million, which were destined to be smuggled out of South Africa.
At the time, provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the vehicles were intended to be driven across the Beitbridge port of entry into neighbouring Zimbabwe on Sunday.
A man escaped on foot, evading arrest while two women aged 19 and 20 were arrested for possession of a stolen Toyota Hilux GD-6 double cab bakkie.
Image: SAPS
On Tuesday, IOL also reported that a 31-year-old man has appeared before the Polokwane Magistrate's Court in Limpopo after he was arrested when police intercepted another stolen Toyota Corolla Cross sport utility vehicle which was apparently being driven towards the Beitbridge port of entry.
Provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba told IOL that Mikael Mlambo, a South African national, was driving the vehicle to Zimbabwe. After the court appearance, the case was postponed to Monday next week and Mlambo was remanded in custody.
In the latest operations, Mashaba said members of the Musina Task Team have successfully intercepted a Toyota Corolla Cross on Wednesday evening.
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The vehicle was intercepted at Bergview during routine operations, but the man who was driving the stolen vehicle managed to run and evade arrest.
“The vehicle had been reported stolen in Brakpan, Gauteng province in January 2025. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver accelerated,” said Mashaba.
“After a brief pursuit, the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into nearby bushes. The suspect evaded arrest.”
Mashaba said a manhunt has been launched to locate and arrest the wanted suspect.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has saluted the police teams for their vigilance which has led to the recovery of several stolen vehicles in recent days.
"The recovery of these vehicles represents a significant blow to these criminal networks. Our officers and their partners continue to work tirelessly to dismantle these syndicates that threaten our communities and economy," said Hadebe.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News