LIMPOPO – Criminal activities in Namakgale, particularly around the shopping complex and its surrounding areas, have escalated, with a group of individuals believed to be nyaope boys breaking into homes, smashing car windows, and robbing people.

This trend has led to increased concerns among community members, who are now urging the police to increase night patrols to curb these crimes.

On Wednesday evening, November 6, a group of suspected criminals were apprehended by community members with assistance from the police.

The suspects admitted to committing several robberies in the area. They were taken to the police station without harm.

According to the police, two of the suspects were released the following day pending fingerprint results, while one suspect, who had multiple linked cases, was detained. Another suspect was also arrested.

On Monday, November 11, two individuals, Lesedi Andries Ngomane (21), known as Khashimba, and Khomotso Mashale (25), appeared in the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court on charges of housebreaking and theft.

Ngomane was remanded in police custody, while Mashale was released pending further investigations.

The police investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected.

Victims of these crimes have been sharing their experiences on social media, expressing safety concerns, especially with the festive season approaching. One community member shared CCTV footage showing a man smashing a car window.

The suspect was unknown to the victim, who subsequently opened a case at the Namakgale Police Station.

The police urge community members to cooperate by reporting crimes and opening cases.

Anyone with information about these crimes is encouraged to contact the crime stop number anonymously at 08600 10111 or use the MySAPSApp.