The Police in Limpopo is warning members of the community, especially motorists making use of the N1 and R101 roads between Polokwane and Kranskop Toll Plaza to be vigilant of criminals placing spikes on the road intending to rob them. This is after three similar incidents that took place over the weekend under Mokopane policing precinct from 21 to 22 August 2021.
The sharp objects are reportedly placed by the criminals on the road, resulting in motorists experiencing punctures and being forced to stop to change the tyres. The victims are then robbed of their belongings at gunpoint.
Three cases of armed robbery were opened over the weekend where three motorists and passengers were attacked and robbed of their belongings. One of the recent incidents took place along the R101 road on Saturday night, 21 August 2021, when the victim’s vehicle suddenly got a puncture as a result of the said spikes. While changing the tyre, three suspects emerged from the bushes and fired some shots. They then forced the victim and his wife into the bushes and robbed them of cellphones and bank cards. The victims managed to escape with minor injuries.
The other two motorists were separately attacked on the N1 road on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 August 2021 after experiencing punctures as a result of spikes on the road. As the victims were busy changing tyres, the suspects suddenly emerged from the nearby bushes and threatened them with pistols and a rifle. They were then robbed of items that included cash, cellphones, laptops, bank cards and clothes.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has ordered the police to intensify patrols on the major routes to ensure that these criminals are arrested to face the full might of the law.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects. Anyone with information that can lead to their arrest should contact Lieutenant Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501 or Sergeant Phaladi Makola on 082 749 2233 or the Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the nearest Police Station. Motorists are also urged to report any suspicious movements on the roads to the Police.