Limpopo police recover stolen grader worth R2m
A 34-year-old suspect is due in court over the alleged hijacking of a Limpopo Department of Public Works grader worth more than R2m.
POLOKWANE – A 34-year-old man is expected to appear in the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court today (May 20), in connection with the alleged hijacking of a grader worth more than R2m, as well as kidnapping and possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.
According to Limpopo police spokesperson details released on Tuesday, the incident took place on Monday, May 18, along the R33 outside Bela-Bela.
Worker allegedly tied up at gunpoint
A 64-year-old employee of the Limpopo Department of Public Works was reportedly operating a grader when he was approached by two men who allegedly asked for assistance with clearing a site.
Police said the employee declined the request, after which one of the men allegedly threatened him with a firearm. The victim was reportedly dragged into nearby bushes and tied up.
According to police, one suspect remained with the victim while the other allegedly drove off with the grader.
Community members assist in rescue
The victim was allegedly held until later that evening when the remaining suspect fled after a vehicle stopped nearby.
Members of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), who had reportedly been searching the area, assisted the victim.
Police later recovered the grader in the Siyabuswa policing area, where a 34-year-old suspect was arrested.
Police praise joint operation
Limpopo provincial commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe commended the coordinated efforts of the Sekhukhune Tracking Team, Tracker, rural safety structures, private security companies and the CPF.
Police investigations are continuing.
