Two Ugandan nationals arrested in Centurion after TMPD intercepts vehicle loaded with stolen motorcycles

Two Ugandan nationals were arrested on Saturday, 22 August 2026, after Tshwane Metro Police Drug Unit officers stopped a vehicle in Centurion and found motorcycles and engines that authorities say were stolen and linked to cross-border smuggling.

Stop and search in Centurion

TMPD officers on patrol in Centurion intercepted a suspicious vehicle at the N1 and Botha Avenue and conducted an inspection.

“Upon inspection, two males, who are Ugandan nationals, were found in the vehicle. Motorcycles and engines were also discovered, which the suspects could not account for.”

Items recovered and value

Officers recovered a black Toyota Voxy, a Honda, a Yamaha and two Triumph motorcycle engines. The TMPD estimated the value of the recovered property at R880 000.

Alleged syndicate and charges

According to the TMPD, further checks with relevant authorities linked the two men to a cross-border smuggling syndicate that moves stolen motorcycles into neighbouring countries.

“Further verification with relevant authorities indicated the suspects are allegedly part of a cross‑border syndicate that smuggles stolen motorcycles into neighbouring countries as per reported cases across Gauteng Province,”

The TMPD said the motorcycles had been reported stolen in Kempton Park, Alberton, and Lyttelton.

“The motorcycles were reported stolen in Kempton Park, Alberton, and Lyttelton. The suspects were immediately arrested for possession of three stolen motorcycles, possession of two stolen motorcycle engines, fraud, and possession of stolen property.”

Response and wider enforcement

The TMPD commended its members for the arrest. The department’s statement followed recent intensified operations against cross-border crime: the South African Police Service in Limpopo, supported by the SANDF, recovered seven suspected stolen vehicles and seized illicit cigarettes worth more than R800 000 during operations conducted between 13 and 16 August 2026, authorities said.