The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Nneke Ledwaba has established a special task team to deal with criminal activities that appear to be taking root along the N1 south of Polokwane. This follows after a horrific incident in which five (5) people lost their lives in the early hours of this morning when their vehicle slammed into the back of a truck whose driver was being robbed by unknown suspects.
On Saturday 2018-11-10 at about 02h30, a truck allegedly experienced mechanical problems and stopped next to the road along the N1 between Modimolle Mountain and Kranskop Tollgate. Two suspects suddenly emerged and attempted to rob the driver.
The truck driver immediately pulled off and as he got onto the road, a Toyota vehicle drove into the truck from behind. The robbers fired shots at the direction of the truck driver who did not stop, but proceeded straight to Naboomspruit police station. The occupants of the Toyota were in the process of getting out of the vehicle when two other vehicles slammed into them, killing five people on impact.
“As we approach the festive period, people will be travelling to various destinations and we urge everyone to practice safety and remain vigilant at all times, especially at night. Criminals often take advantage of the night and target motorists who sometimes stop alongside the road,” concluded General Ledwaba.
Cases of Attempted Armed Robbery, Attempted Murder and Culpable Homicide have been opened for investigation and no arrests were effected.
Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects responsible is requested to contact Captain Richard Boshomane at 079 894 5501, the Crime Stop number 0860010111, Crime Line SMS 32211 or contact the nearest police station.
