Limpopo police successfully thwarted a human trafficking operation, arresting 20 Ethiopian nationals being transported to Johannesburg in a Ford Ranger bakkie.
The interception occurred along the N11 in Mokopane, following reports that the group had been illegally brought into South Africa via the Beitbridge Border Post.
When authorities attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused and led them on a high-speed pursuit. During the chase, shots were fired at the officers, who returned fire until the vehicle lost control and crashed into nearby bushes.
The driver and one passenger fled on foot and remain at large. A search of the vehicle revealed 20 Ethiopian men, aged between 18 and 44, who lacked valid documentation.
An investigation into the smuggling ring has been launched.
