By REGINALD KANYANE
17 November 2025- A joint intelligence-driven operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo and North West, has resulted in the arrest of seven notorious suspects (six men and a woman) aged between 31 and 49. These suspects are believed to be part of a violent crime syndicate responsible for multiple business robberies, armed attacks, and the recent fatal robbery in Matlematlong.
The Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the multi-disciplinary team comprising Northam CIS, Rustenburg TRT, Mogwase CIS, Mogwase Vispol and Northam Rural Safety, executed a swift and coordinated takedown that led to the arrests and significant confiscations. Ledwaba said the breakthrough followed a business robbery on 12 November 2025, during which a victim was fatally wounded.
“Intelligence gathered at the scene immediately linked a white Toyota Fortuner to suspects known for terrorising communities in Northam, Mogwase and surrounding areas. The vehicle was traced and intercepted near a local school in Northam, where the driver identified as one of the syndicate members was arrested.
“Further information obtained during questioning led officers to Rethabile village, Amandelbult, where additional suspects linked to the gang were apprehended. During the searches, police recovered 1 x AK47 rifle, 2 x 9mm pistols (serial numbers removed), one belonging to SAPS, 36 magazines (AK47 and 9mm) and 70 x AK47 rounds (7.62x39mm).
“This includes 110 x 9mm cartridges, additional magazines, stolen property including a television, speakers, cigarettes, multiple cell phones, Toyota vehicle keys, and clothing, gloves, and balaclavas used during robberies,” he said.
Ledwaba further said the police confiscated a Toyota Fortuner used in the commission of several business robberies. He added that a Toyota Tazz, stolen during a Mogwase robbery, was also recovered abandoned at Smashblock sports ground with its registration plates removed.
The Limpopo Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, applauded the multidisciplinary team for their outstanding work. Hadebe said the apprehension of this notorious group marks a significant victory in their fight against organised crime.
“Their removal from our streets will undoubtedly restore stability and safety in affected communities. The suspects will appear in court soon,” she said.
The Guardian 