Police in Limpopo have seized a charcoal Toyota Hilux GD6 loaded with dagga worth an estimated R2.6 million after suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby bushes during a high-speed pursuit. The bust followed an intelligence-driven operation on Saturday afternoon, 15 February along the R33 between Vaalwater and Modimolle.

Provincial police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe praised the coordinated effort between police, rural safety structures and private security that led to the discovery. Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers had received information about three vehicles transporting dagga from Gauteng towards Limpopo, a white Toyota Fortuner and two Toyota Hilux bakkies.

“The members acted on intelligence about three vehicles travelling at high speed along the R33 from Vaalwater towards Modimolle,” said Ledwaba. Members of the Waterberg District Police activated an operation and spotted the vehicles near Vaalwater.

When officers attempted to stop them, the drivers sped off, prompting a coordinated lookout with the assistance of private security companies. One of the bakkies was eventually intercepted, but the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into nearby bushes.

“The charcoal Toyota Hilux GD6 was found fully loaded with eight bags of dagga estimated to be worth R2.6 million,” Ledwaba said. The vehicle was seized for further investigation.

Hadebe said cooperation between police, security structures and communities remains critical in tackling organised crime. She urged residents to continue providing information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Amanda Basson, on 082 565 8677, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App.