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Zimbabweans arrested over theft of State vehicle parts in SA
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Two Zimbabwean nationals, aged 26 and 37, are set to appear before the Belfast Magistrate's Court following their arrest on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. The pair was apprehended in possession of stripped body parts from a state-owned vehicle belonging to the Department of Health.
Brazen Robbery at Hospital Premises
The incident reportedly unfolded late Monday, November 18, at around 11:00 PM, when the suspects allegedly deceived security personnel at the hospital gate, claiming they were transporting a critically ill patient. Upon gaining entry, the men turned on the unsuspecting guards, brandishing firearms.
The suspects tied the two security guards with ropes, forcing them to lie on the floor. Once the guards managed to free themselves, they discovered the theft of a damaged Toyota Hilux, which had been parked on the premises following an accident.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
A business robbery case was swiftly registered with the Belfast South African Police Service (SAPS), prompting a multi-unit investigation involving the Witbank Tactical Response Team, Middleburg Flying Squad, and Belfast SAPS. The operation led to the arrest of the two suspects, who were found in possession of stripped vehicle parts matching the stolen Hilux.
Some parts were discovered loaded onto a suspect's light delivery vehicle (LDV), while additional parts were recovered in surrounding areas following further police inquiries.
Commendation from Police Leadership
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the officers involved for their swift and effective response.
"Our team of investigators, in collaboration with prosecutors, will ensure that a strong case is presented in court. We are confident that the suspects will be convicted to show that no one disrespects the state," said Major General Mkhwanazi.
Potential Additional Charges
While the suspects currently face charges of possession of suspected stolen vehicle parts, authorities have indicated the possibility of additional charges as the investigation unfolds.
The arrests underscore the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts in combating crime and recovering stolen government property. The court proceedings will likely shed more light on the suspects' motives and the extent of their involvement in the crime.
Brazen Robbery at Hospital Premises
The incident reportedly unfolded late Monday, November 18, at around 11:00 PM, when the suspects allegedly deceived security personnel at the hospital gate, claiming they were transporting a critically ill patient. Upon gaining entry, the men turned on the unsuspecting guards, brandishing firearms.
The suspects tied the two security guards with ropes, forcing them to lie on the floor. Once the guards managed to free themselves, they discovered the theft of a damaged Toyota Hilux, which had been parked on the premises following an accident.
Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests
A business robbery case was swiftly registered with the Belfast South African Police Service (SAPS), prompting a multi-unit investigation involving the Witbank Tactical Response Team, Middleburg Flying Squad, and Belfast SAPS. The operation led to the arrest of the two suspects, who were found in possession of stripped vehicle parts matching the stolen Hilux.
Some parts were discovered loaded onto a suspect's light delivery vehicle (LDV), while additional parts were recovered in surrounding areas following further police inquiries.
Commendation from Police Leadership
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the officers involved for their swift and effective response.
"Our team of investigators, in collaboration with prosecutors, will ensure that a strong case is presented in court. We are confident that the suspects will be convicted to show that no one disrespects the state," said Major General Mkhwanazi.
Potential Additional Charges
While the suspects currently face charges of possession of suspected stolen vehicle parts, authorities have indicated the possibility of additional charges as the investigation unfolds.
The arrests underscore the importance of collaborative law enforcement efforts in combating crime and recovering stolen government property. The court proceedings will likely shed more light on the suspects' motives and the extent of their involvement in the crime.
Source - byo24news
