Recovered stripped motorbikes.
A 43-year-old foreign national was arrested and three suspected stolen motorbikes, a firearm and live ammunition recovered on Tuesday.
According to the provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the recovery, along the R81 near the Mopani District Office was made possible through a co-ordinated operation involving the Mopani District Tracking Team, Giyani K9 Unit, Public Order Policing members, the Motor Vehicle Theft Unit, and private security partners.
The teams were activated after receiving information from a security tracking company about a vehicle suspected to be transporting stolen motorbikes.
Police strategically mobilised and intercepted the identified vehicle along the R81. A search conducted upon interception led to the discovery of three stripped motorbikes concealed in the vehicle, along with a live 9mm round ammunition.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Jan Scheepers, commended the teams involved, saying: “This operation clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of integrated and partnership policing in combating organised crime and protecting our communities.”
The suspect was arrested at the scene and is currently in police custody. He is expected to appear before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of possession of suspected stolen property and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Meanwhile, the members of Tzaneen Crime Prevention Unit and Mopani District Tracking team recovered an unlicensed firearm loaded with ammunition when two men abandoned it and ran into Burgersdorp village upon seeing them patrolling in the area. Investigations are continuing.
Motor vehicle used to transport stolen motorbikes.
A confiscated firearm and ammunition.