Stolen Mercedes-Benz Intercepted in Limpopo During High-Risk Anti-Smuggling Operation

A luxury Mercedes-Benz worth R700,000 was recovered by police during a tense shootout in Limpopo, highlighting ongoing challenges with cross-border vehicle theft and smuggling.

Early intelligence prompted a high-risk operation along the N1 near Botlokwa, targeting two stolen vehicles from a Boksburg business robbery on 12 August: a Mercedes-Benz C200 and an Audi A3. Authorities believed the cars were destined for Zimbabwe via the Beitbridge border post.

Shootout Leaves Officer Injured

According to Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the operation escalated when occupants of the Audi opened fire at police, leaving one officer injured. Despite the danger, the SAPS tactical team, working alongside national detectives and private security partners, pressed on.

“The bravery and professionalism displayed under life-threatening conditions were remarkable,” Mashaba said.

The Audi A3 escaped, but the Mercedes-Benz was successfully cornered. Two suspects, a 25-year-old South African and a 48-year-old foreign national, were arrested on the scene. Investigations into attempted murder and possession of a stolen motor vehicle are underway, with the suspects set to appear in Sekgosese Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

Police Praise Teamwork

Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe lauded the collaborative effort, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency coordination in tackling organized crime.

“This operation shows the power of collaboration between our provincial teams, national detectives, and the private security sector. Our members showed extraordinary courage, and we wish our injured officer a speedy recovery,” Hadebe said.

Community Call to Action

Authorities have intensified the manhunt for the fleeing Audi occupants and are urging community members to share any relevant information through Crime Stop, the My SAPS App, or local police stations.

This latest incident is part of a growing trend of cross-border vehicle theft, with previous cases including a stolen Toyota Hilux bakkie in Tshwane recovered in Limpopo last month. Experts warn that syndicates are increasingly targeting high-value vehicles for smuggling, reinforcing the need for rapid police response and public vigilance.

As Limpopo communities reel from this latest high-profile arrest, the SAPS message is clear: criminal syndicates will not find safe passage, and law enforcement will continue to act decisively to recover stolen assets and protect citizens.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com