Three men aged between 43 and 52 are expected to appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on 23 February in connection with a vehicle theft syndicate that allegedly targeted bakkies in and around Polokwane.
The arrests were made by the Polokwane Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit and Crime Prevention officers after weeks of investigations into thefts involving older models of Toyota Hilux and Nissan 1400 vehicles.
Police said more than seven cases had been reported in the city and nearby areas. The suspects were arrested separately during an intelligence-driven operation in villages in the Mankweng and Lebowakgomo policing areas.
A 43-year-old man was arrested at Ga Mothapo. A 48-year-old shop owner was arrested at Ga Molepo after police allegedly found him in possession of a stolen Toyota Hilux that had been sold to him. The third suspect, aged 52, was arrested at Ga Maja Kopermyn village.
Police recovered three stolen vehicles during the operation. They believe the 52-year-old suspect, who has reportedly been on parole since December 2025, played a leading role in the syndicate.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said investigations are continuing and more arrests are possible.
“We remain committed to dismantling organised vehicle theft syndicates operating in the province. The recovery of stolen vehicles and arrest of suspects demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations and community cooperation,” he said.
He urged vehicle owners to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to police. Stolen vehicles are often quickly moved or sold to unsuspecting buyers, he said.
The men are expected to face charges of motor vehicle theft and possession of suspected stolen property. Police are investigating whether they may be linked to other cases in the province.
