Police in Limpopo have successfully intercepted a stolen high-performance luxury SUV valued at over R2.5 million during a coordinated anti-smuggling operation near Polokwane. The operation, which took place on Wednesday along the N1 highway, was carried out by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with private security companies ShadowSecure Security, Tshimollo Security and Investigations, and Tracker Connect.
Authorities had received intelligence regarding a stolen vehicle traveling from Gauteng toward the Beitbridge border. The operational team maintained surveillance along the N1 route and intercepted a white Nissan Patrol V8 5.6 near Shell Ultra City within the Westernburg policing area. Further investigation confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen in Brooklyn, Pretoria.
A 51-year-old Zimbabwean national who was driving the vehicle at the time was arrested on-site. He has been charged with possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle and is scheduled to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the operation, commending the quick response and strong collaboration among SAPS and its partners, noting that intelligence-led policing continues to play a vital role in combating cross-border crime.
This arrest comes just two months after another interception involving a stolen Toyota Corolla Cross. In that incident, 31-year-old Mikael Mlambo was arrested by the SAPS Flying Squad after a high-speed chase on the N1. The vehicle, also stolen in Pretoria, was recovered with its tracking device removed. Mlambo was unable to produce legitimate ownership documentation and was also charged with possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.
Authorities believe these incidents reflect a concerning trend of stolen South African vehicles being trafficked across the Beitbridge border into neighboring Zimbabwe. Police are encouraging the public to remain alert and report any suspicious vehicle activity along key transport routes.
