By Staff Reporter
MUSINA – A joint operation by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) has led to the recovery of a luxury Ford Everest XLT valued at approximately R940 000 after it was intercepted while crossing the Limpopo River.
The recovery was carried out by SANDF members, including the 1 South African Tank Regiment deployed in Limpopo, working together with the SAPS Border Police Reaction Team. The incident occurred on 5 January 2026 in the Musina area of responsibility.
According to reports, SAPS members conducting crime-combatting operations near the border noticed a vehicle driving directly into the flowing Limpopo River. Police then proceeded to Malala Road, where SANDF members were conducting Vehicle Control Point operations, to request backup.
Due to poor visibility and late evening conditions, the joint recovery operation was postponed to the morning of 6 January 2026.
The scene was secured and guarded overnight to preserve evidence.
The following morning, the vehicle was successfully recovered with the assistance of a civilian recovery company and taken to the SAPS pound.
Further investigations revealed that the Ford Everest had been reported stolen in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, on 31 December 2025, and was fitted with false registration plates.
The Officer Commanding Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo, Colonel Dikgabane Herold Tladi, commended all members involved for their professionalism and teamwork in recovering the stolen vehicle.
Investigations into the matter are continuing.
