| 2025/04/02 |
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Media Statement
POLOKWANE – In a major breakthrough in the fight against vehicle smuggling, a joint intelligence-driven operation successfully intercepted a stolen luxury vehicle destined for illegal export. On Tuesday, 01 April 2025, an anti-smuggling operation was conducted along the N1 North, near Peter Mokaba Stadium, following intelligence regarding a stolen Toyota Fortuner VX traveling from Gauteng Province towards the Beitbridge Port of Entry for smuggling. The operational teams, comprising the Anti-Smuggling Team, Polokwane LCRC, and external law enforcement partners from Tshimollo Security and Investigation, were deployed to monitor the suspected vehicle. The vehicle was spotted traveling northbound on the N1 and was swiftly stopped for investigation. Upon verification on-site, it was confirmed that the Toyota Fortuner had been reported stolen over the weekend at Pretoria Central. The driver, a 43-year-old South African male, was immediately arrested. The vehicle, valued at R800 000-00, was seized as part of the investigation. Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, praised the operational teams for their swift action and successful interception. “This operational success highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing and the strong partnerships we have with various role players. The swift action of our officers and partners prevented a high-value vehicle from being smuggled out of the country and dismantled a smuggling network.” said Lieutenant General Hadebe. The suspect is set to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 03 April 2025, facing charges of possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle. Ends
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