Limpopo police have launched a manhunt for suspects who brazenly hijacked a Toyota Corolla and a white Toyota Hilux bakkie in a simultaneous carjacking at Madimbo village under the Tshamutumbu policing precinct.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba stated that on March 22, a 51-year-old man was at home when he received a call informing him that his goods were being stolen. He was then asked to come to the scene to assist in locating the suspects and recovering the stolen property.

“A 51 year old was at home in Tshiungani village, when he received a phone call informing him that they were tracing suspects who allegedly stole his goods and asked him to come and assist them at Madimbo bushes, where some of the stolen property was found in the area.”

When the victim arrived, he found his car parked alongside another vehicle, only to be caught in a hail of gunfire. As he attempted to call the police, the suspects made a speedy getaway.

“He rushed to the vicinity, and both vehicles were parked next to another upon his arrival. While busy trying to call the police, they heard two gunshots fired from the nearby bushes, and they ran away in different directions, leaving them (community members). Afterwards, they saw both vehicles being driven away and reported the matter to the police,” said Ledwaba.

After reporting the incident, police responded swiftly, locating the Toyota Corolla near the scene. The Toyota Hilux bakkie, valued at R375,000, was tracked down through a joint effort by the police and the community. It was eventually found abandoned at Gate 32 near the Limpopo River, stripped of its radio system.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe applauded the Cross-Border Neighbourhood Watch for its role in recovering the two hijacked vehicles, emphasising that joint efforts in combating cross-border crime yield significant results.

"We will stop at nothing to deal with cross-border crimes through collaboration with our partners in the form of Neighbourhood Watches and broader communities along the borderline stations. Our concerted efforts in combating cross-border crimes are yielding desirable results."

A manhunt has been launched for the suspects, and authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Those with details can contact Sergeant Lufuno Phanuel Mulaudzi at 071 397 0443, the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za