A joint operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo and North West has led to the arrest of seven individuals believed to be part of a violent crime syndicate responsible for multiple business robberies, armed attacks, and a fatal robbery in Matlematlong.
The group, consisting of six men and one woman aged between 31 and 49, was apprehended following coordinated efforts by Northam CIS, Rustenburg TRT, Mogwase CIS, Mogwase Vispol, and Northam Rural Safety.
The breakthrough came after a business robbery on 12 November 2025, during which a victim was killed. Investigators linked a white Toyota Fortuner used in the crime to the suspects, who had been terrorising communities in Northam, Mogwase, and surrounding areas. The vehicle was intercepted near a Northam school, resulting in the arrest of the driver. Subsequent questioning led police to Rethabile Village in Amandelbult, where additional suspects were taken into custody.
Police recovered an AK47 rifle, two 9mm pistols with removed serial numbers (one confirmed stolen from SAPS), 36 magazines, 70 rounds of AK47 ammunition, 110 9mm cartridges, and stolen property including a TV, speakers, cigarettes, cellphones, and clothing used during robberies. The Toyota Fortuner and a stolen Toyota Tazz were also recovered.
Investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are not ruled out. The suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday, 17 November.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
