LIMPOPO – A joint anti-smuggling operation involving the Provincial Tracking Team and the Provincial Investigation Unit led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and the arrest of a suspect early this morning in the Makhado policing area.

The operation was conducted with the assistance of external partners, including Limpopo Tactical, Tshimollo Security and Investigations, Tracker Connect, Makhado Defendum, and Elti Security Makhado.

High-speed chase on N1 North

According to police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, information was received that a vehicle stolen in Gauteng was being driven towards the Beitbridge Port of Entry with the intention of smuggling it out of the country.

Members kept observation along the N1 North in the Makhado policing area, where the vehicle was spotted.

An attempt to stop the vehicle failed after the driver sped off, resulting in a high-speed chase. The vehicle was eventually forced to a stop.

Vehicle valued at R600 000

Preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle, valued at approximately R600 000, had been reported stolen in the Krugersdorp policing area, Gauteng, on Friday, July 17.

Zimbabwean national arrested

The driver, a 44-year-old Zimbabwean national, was arrested.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Makhado Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, July 22, facing charges of possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle, as well as reckless and negligent driving.