High-speed Limpopo chase ends after suspects abandon bakkie loaded with R50,400 in illicit cigarettes

Police in Limpopo intercepted a vehicle after a high-speed chase that ended with the seizure of illicit cigarettes estimated at R50,400 and a white Toyota Hilux valued at R110,000.

Chase on the R71

According to South African Police Service (Saps) statements, officers in Sebayeng and the Capricorn Highway Patrol received information that a white Toyota Hilux bakkie was transporting illicit cigarettes. The bakkie was spotted travelling along the R71 public road.

Police attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver ignored instructions and sped off. The pursuit continued from Ga-Mothiba village outside Mankweng and ended when the bakkie was intercepted at Makotopong village at about 7pm, the statement said.

Suspects flee; items seized

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said two unknown suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot into the darkness to evade arrest. Officers searched the abandoned bakkie and found illicit cigarettes with an estimated street value of R50,400.

The statement said the bakkie, valued at R110,000, and the illicit cigarettes were seized as part of the investigation.

Appeal for information

Police urged anyone with information that could assist with the apprehension of the two male suspects to contact the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Alinah Marotola, on 0825659176, the crime stop number 0860010111, the nearest police station, or the MySAPSApp. The statement said police investigations are continuing.

Related enforcement activity

The police release also referenced operations earlier in August. Between 13 and 16 August 2026, Limpopo Saps and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) intensified operations along strategic border routes, recovering seven stolen vehicles, including a Toyota Land Cruiser abandoned in the Limpopo River, and arresting a Zimbabwean suspect. During those operations police confiscated illicit cigarettes valued at R877,679 concealed in vehicles used for smuggling.

Provincial Commissioner Jan Scheepers praised the intelligence-driven deployments and said they would continue closing syndicate routes, the statement added.