The suspects are allegedly part of a cross‑border syndicate that smuggles stolen motorcycles into neighbouring countries.
Two Ugandan nationals believed to be part of a cross‑border motorcycle smuggling syndicate have been arrested. Picture: X/@TMPDSafety
Two Ugandan nationals believed to be part of a cross‑border motorcycle smuggling syndicate have been arrested after the Tshwane Metro Police Drug Unit officers intercepted a suspicious vehicle loaded with stolen bikes and engines worth nearly R880 000.
The duo were handcuffed on Saturday, 22 August 2026, by members of the TMPD Drug Unit who were patrolling in Centurion.
Arrest
The TMPD said officers were patrolling the area when they spotted a suspicious vehicle and stopped it for inspection at the N1 and Botha Avenue.
“Upon inspection, two males, who are Ugandan nationals, were found in the vehicle. Motorcycles and engines were also discovered, which the suspects could not account for.”
“Further verification with relevant authorities indicated the suspects are allegedly part of a cross‑border syndicate that smuggles stolen motorcycles into neighbouring countries as per reported cases across Gauteng Province,” the TMPD said.
Recovered items
Recovered items include a black Toyota Voxy, a Honda, a Yamaha and two Triumph motorcycle engines.
The TMPD said the estimated value of the stolen property is R880 000.
“The motorcycles were reported stolen in Kempton Park, Alberton, and Lyttelton. The suspects were immediately arrested for possession of three stolen motorcycles, possession of two stolen motorcycle engines, fraud, and possession of stolen property.”
The TMPD commended the members for their outstanding work.
Cross-border crime
Last week, the South African Police Service (Saps) in Limpopo, backed by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), struck a major blow against cross‑border crime, recovering seven suspected stolen vehicles and seizing illicit cigarettes worth more than R800 000 in a four‑day blitz.
This comes after law-enforcement partners intensified operations against cross-border criminal activities.
Police said the successes were recorded during operations conducted between 13 and 16 August 2026, targeting strategic routes, border areas and identified crossing points leading towards the Limpopo River and the Zimbabwean border.
