By Staff Reporter
LENYENYE – A 36-year-old man suspected of robbing hitchhikers at gunpoint in the Ga-Sekororo area was arrested following a swift operation by law enforcement on December 10.
The arrest comes after a series of reported incidents targeting hitchhikers along the D21 road:On December 3, 2024, a 25-year-old hitchhiker reported being robbed at gunpoint near Mahlakung Mall by a motorist driving a white Toyota Avanza.
On December 8, 2024, a 26-year-old woman was similarly robbed at a hiking spot in the Maake policing area.
The Mopani District Tracking Team, in collaboration with Tzaneen Crime Intelligence, launched an operation to apprehend the suspect. On December 10, 2024, at approximately 14:30, the Toyota Avanza was spotted in Botshwana village along the D21 road. Police cornered and stopped the vehicle.
Upon searching the car, authorities discovered:
A 9mm firearm with three rounds of ammunition, concealed under the driver’s seat,Two 7.65 live rounds in the suspect’s pocket and Four smartphones, new clothing, female handbags, bank cards, and identity documents suspected to belong to previous victims.
The suspect could not produce a valid firearm license. He was arrested forbPossession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and Unlawful possession of suspected stolen property.
The Toyota Avanza was also seized for further investigation.
Police Commend Efforts and Issue Warning
Members of the Mopani District Tracking Team and Tzaneen Crime Intelligence were praised for their efforts in tracking down the suspect.
Police have urged residents to avoid hiking and to use taxi ranks for safer travel.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to connect the suspect to additional robbery cases in the area.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
