Cash in a plastic bag A couple in Limpopo withdrew a substantial amount of money before they were intercepted on the road and robbed at Hlogotlou.
Image: SAPS
Police in Limpopo have arrested a 34-year-old man in connection with “a violent robbery” that took place in Hlogotlou, where a couple was robbed of an undisclosed amount of money.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng said the robbery happened in January last year.
“The arrest follows an intensive investigation into the incident, where a couple was ambushed and robbed of a substantial amount of cash. On Friday, at approximately 10pm, members of the Limpopo Provincial Investigation Unit received intelligence regarding the whereabouts of one of the long-sought suspects involved in the robbery,” said Thakeng.
Acting swiftly, Thakeng said law enforcement officers operationalized the information, leading to the wanted suspect’s arrest in Hlogotlou on Saturday around midnight.
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The suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and nine live rounds of ammunition.
“According to (police) reports, in January 2024, a couple was traveling from Groblersdal town after withdrawing a significant sum of money following a prior arrangement with a banking institution. As they approached a speed hump in Sephaku village, two masked suspects emerged, fired multiple shots, and wounded the male victim in the hip and right leg. His fiancée was left unharmed,” said Thakeng.
The assailants demanded the money, which the victims handed over before the gunmen fled the scene on foot.
“The local police responded swiftly, recovering three spent cartridges and two live rounds of ammunition. The wounded victim was transported to the hospital for medical treatment,” said Thakeng.
Following the arrest of one of the suspects, police have intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects linked to the incident.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest and commended the collaboration between law enforcement and the community in tackling crime.
Hadebe expressed confidence that the investigation team would soon apprehend the remaining suspects.
Provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Image: SAPS
The arrested man was charged for conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery with a firearm, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition
Police are appealing to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects to report to authorities.
“They can call Crime Stop at 08600 10111, visit their nearest police station or use MySAPSApp,” the police appealed.
IOL
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