Limpopo police recover suspected stolen vehicles, seize illicit cigarettes

Limpopo police confiscated seven suspected stolen vehicles and illicit cigarettes worth over R800,000 during operations aimed at combating cross-border criminal activities. The recoveries occurred between August 13 and 16, 2026, and involved collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and other law enforcement agencies.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba reported that the operations targeted key routes and border areas, particularly along the N1, Musina, Tshamutumbu, Makhado, Malaladrift, Sandquest, and surrounding regions. Among the seized items was a grey Nissan Navara, which had been reported stolen in the Linden SAPS jurisdiction.

A 27-year-old Zimbabwean man was apprehended after hiding in bushes near the vehicle, which had been tampered with with false registration plates and a false licence disc. Additionally, a Toyota Land Cruiser valued at around R700,000 was recovered, abandoned in the Limpopo River. Other vehicles seized included a white Peugeot Landtrek valued at approximately R750,000, a Toyota Corolla Cross valued at around R500,000, a white Ford Territory valued at about R150,000, and a white Suzuki sedan valued at approximately R240,000.

Illicit cigarettes worth roughly R877,679 were also confiscated, comprising Royal Express and Remington Gold brands found concealed in vehicles suspected of being used for smuggling. Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers praised the efforts of the police, SANDF, and other stakeholders, emphasizing the ongoing fight against cross-border crime and the success of their intelligence-driven deployments.