By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
13 April 2026 – The police in Mabeskraal working in close collaboration with various specialised units, has achieved a significant breakthrough following the successful arrest of multiple suspects linked to a house robbery and kidnapping incident reported this week. The police said in the late Wednesday evening, 8 April 2026, a man (64) was kidnapped from his residence in Mabeskraal by a group of seven armed suspects.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the perpetrators allegedly targeted the victim based on information that he had recently received a substantial pension payout. Myburgh said following the incident, an intelligence-led, multidisciplinary operation was immediately launched.
“Through coordinated efforts involving crime intelligence, tactical teams, and local policing units, investigators traced suspects believed to be involved in the crime. On 9 April 2026, the police intercepted a vehicle on the R565 road (between Sun City and Rustenburg) near Boshoek.
“Three suspects were found in possession of a prohibited firearm with ammunition, as well as items believed to have been used in the commission of criminal activities, including a vehicle. Further investigation and information obtained led to additional arrests of three more suspects in the Ledig area, found with property linked to the victim,” she said.
Myburgh further said in total, six suspects aged between 30 and 60, were arrested and charged with offences, including kidnapping, house robbery, possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property. She added that items recovered during the operation include a firearm, ammunition, cell phones, electronic storage devices and other belongings linked to the victim.
“Further developments in the investigation led to the arrest of a seventh suspect, an estranged wife (49) to the victim, who allegedly played a key role in orchestrating the crime. All seven suspects are expected to appear before the Mogwase Magistrate’s Court on 13 April 2026, where they will face relevant charges.
“The police investigations remain ongoing, including linking the suspects to other crimes, including armed robberies and business robberies in the Marikana, Mabeskraal, Rustenburg and Mogwase areas,” said Myburgh.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major Gen (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has commended all units involved for their swift and coordinated response, highlighting the importance of intelligence-driven operations in combating serious and violent crime. Naidoo said the members of the public are encouraged to report any information that may assist ongoing investigations to their nearest police station, via the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or anonymously via the MySAPS App from your smartphone.
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