The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has once again appreciated the work done by Nelspruit Flying Squad members who arrested two more suspects, aged between 52 and 58 in the morning of yesterday, Sunday 13 March 2022.
The two were allegedly in a mission to smuggle motorbikes into the country of Mozambique.
This breakthrough comes after another similar story broke out wherein three men were nabbed by members of the same unit (Nelspruit Flying Squad) near Kaapmuiden just before midnight on Saturday, 12 March 2022.
Reports indicate that the members were conducting their normal duties at Kaapmuiden when they received information about a certain white Isuzu bakkie with KZN registration number plates which was carrying suspected stolen properties and it was on its way to Mozambique. More details regarding the said vehicle indicated that the bakkie was travelling on the N4 Road.
The members were on the lookout for the said vehicle and they then spotted it next to Nkomazi Toll Plaza. The bakkie, with two occupants was stopped and searched by these dedicated members. Whilst searching the car, motorcycle parts which were wrapped in black plastic bags were found. The driver and his crew were immediately arrested and charged for possession of suspected stolen properties.
The bakkie was confiscated also as it was used in the commission of crime. Police further established that the goods were from Johannesburg (Gauteng) and were destined for Mozambique when members ended their trip.
The two men will join the other three suspects who were arrested on Saturday (12 March 2022) whilst on a similar mission and they will all appear at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 14 March 2022.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela expressed her satisfaction with the members’ relentless efforts and enthusiasm in tackling smuggling of suspected stolen goods. “Our province is situated along the borders of two countries, which is Mozambique and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Having vigilant members who do not take things at face value is paramount if we are serious about overcoming cross border crimes.
We are indeed thankful for what we have achieved thus far” commented the General.
Brigadier Selvy Mohlala
