POTCHEFSTROOM – A significant breakthrough in the fight against crime was made on Monday night as two suspects, aged 29 and 39, were taken into custody. The arrest followed a Crime Intelligence operation executed by the Potchefstroom Flying Squad.
Syndicate Leader
Sources revealed that in July 2023, the police received critical information regarding a suspected syndicate leader. This individual was allegedly instrumental in multiple armed robberies where victims were tracked to and from banks and then robbed of their cash.
The accused had been on the police watchlist due to suspected involvement in crimes spanning the North West, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga provinces.
High Speed Chase
The situation escalated on Monday, 07 August 2023, when a robbery was reported in Ventersdorp. Eyewitnesses provided the police with vehicle descriptions connected to the crime, prompting an immediate lookout order.
The vigilance of the members paid off when, around 21:30, the suspect’s vehicles were spotted on the R30 road, traveling from Ventersdorp towards Rustenburg. Attempts to intercept the vehicles led to a high-speed chase. With swift collaboration, Rustenburg Police and Patrollers were engaged, resulting in the apprehension of the two suspects.
Stolen Firearm
A search of the vehicles revealed a loaded firearm that had been reported stolen from Pretoria North in July 2022. The police also recovered an undisclosed amount of cash and two cell phones. All these items, along with the vehicles, were seized.
Day in Court
The duo is scheduled to make their court appearance before the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 10 August 2023, facing charges of armed robbery.
Commitment to Upholding Law
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the North West Provincial Commissioner, praised the cohesive efforts of the police and other stakeholders. He emphasized the police's unwavering commitment to ensuring law and order, warning that any form of lawlessness will be dealt with firmly and decisively.
