PLANS to avoid police operations were foiled as two men, aged 25 and 43, were arrested for being in possession of stolen cars.
According to Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the two tried to avoid operations by opting for the holidaymakers’ route through the Kruger National Park.
He said the men were arrested on Sunday, 25 December, for possession of stolen vehicles.
Mohlala said they entered the park via the Numbi gate. Cops suspect they were trying to avoid operations on the N4, and possibly aiming to exit the park either via Malelane or Komatipoort gates.
He said they decided to spend some time at the Afsaal picnic area, not knowing that Tracker had already picked up the signal for one of the cars.
“Tracker alerted the police and SanParks security, who intercepted one of the cars. Upon interception, the suspect would not go down alone. He revealed that there was another stolen car in the picnic area, leading to the arrest of the second suspect,” said Mohlala.
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He said both vehicles, Toyota Hilux extended cabs, were reported stolen in Delmas and Daveyton earlier this month. And, they were already fitted with false registration plates.
“The suspects are expected to appear in court on Wednesday, 28 December, for possession of stolen vehicles. Police can’t rule out possibilities of adding other charges as the investigation continues.”
Mpumalanga commissioner Lieutenant-General Semakaleng Manamela has hailed the partnership that led to the arrest and recovery of stolen cars.
She warned criminals that they would not be able to hide.
“Tourists and locals’ safety will remain our top priority.”
