By AGISANANG SCUFF
17 December 2025 – Three suspects aged between 29 and 30 were arrested following a hijacking and robbery incident involving a Botswana national (65). The suspects were arrested on 15 December 2025, just after 5pm in Potchefstroom after a tip-off regarding a hijacking and a coordinated operation was activated by Crime Intelligence, the Flying Squad of Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, the Provincial Drug Task Team, as well as various private security companies.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said according to reports, the incident was reported earlier on the same day at approximately at 10am, when the victim was travelling along the road between Nooitgedacht and Mooifontein, near Mahikeng in her vehicle, a Toyota Yaris. Myburgh said the victim was allegedly accosted by three suspects travelling in a white vehicle, which blocked the road and forced her to stop.
“The suspects reportedly pointed her with a firearm and threatened her with a knife, compelling her to get into their vehicle. She was subsequently driven to Itsoseng and Mahikeng, where she was forcefully taken to various Automatic Teller Machines (ATM’s) and coerced into withdrawing money from her bank account.
“After the withdrawals, the victim was abandoned in Mahikeng. Her cellphones were also stolen during the ordeal,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Naidoo, commended the swift and effective collaboration between the various law enforcement units and private security companies, stating that such teamwork remains critical in combating serious and violent crime.
Naidoo said the arrest of these suspects demonstrates the commitment by police in ensuring that criminals are brought to book and that communities, including visitors to the North West, are protected.
“The police will not tolerate acts of violence and intimidation on the roads, especially during the festive season, when more travellers are expected.
“The suspects are expected to appear before the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on 18 December 2025, facing charges related to hijacking, robbery, kidnapping and possession of stolen property,” he said.
Naidoo said the minor will be dealt with in terms of the Child Justice Act.
The Guardian 