Smuggler arrested with stolen vehicle on his way to the border

The Provincial Anti-Smuggling Task Team, working with external security forces such as Reflex Anti-Hijacking Security and Tshimollo Security and Investigation, made a breakthrough on Thursday, April 18, 2024, around 20:00, when they arrested a 44-year-old male suspect

The arrest was made in connection with a suspected stolen Toyota Fortuner.

Police received a tip-off regarding a stolen vehicle traveling along the R101 public road in Gauteng province, with the intention to smuggle it out of South Africa via the Beitbridge Port of Entry in Limpopo province.

A joint operation was carried out, and the suspect’s vehicle, matching the given description, was spotted speeding past the Shell Ultra City Filling Station near Polokwane.

A car chase ensued, with the operational teams eventually compelling the suspect to stop next to the Polokwane Traffic Weighbridge, where he was immediately arrested.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the motor vehicle, valued at R900,000, had been reported stolen from the Springs policing precinct in Gauteng province on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.

Stolen Toyota Fortuner

The 44-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday, April 22, 2024, facing charges of possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle and reckless and negligent driving

Police investigations are ongoing.

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