Two Zimbabwean nationals, aged 26 and 37, are scheduled to appear in the Belfast Magistrate’s Court following their arrest on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
They were apprehended after being found in possession of stripped components from a state-owned vehicle belonging to South Africa’s Department of Health.
The incident unfolded late on Monday night, November 18, around 11:00 PM.
The suspects reportedly deceived security personnel at a hospital by claiming they were transporting a critically ill patient. Once inside, they brandished firearms and overpowered the guards.
After tying up two security guards with ropes and forcing them to lie on the ground, the suspects made off with a damaged Toyota Hilux that had been parked at the hospital following an accident. After the guards freed themselves, they immediately reported the robbery to the Belfast South African Police Service (SAPS).
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A multi-agency operation was launched that included the Witbank Tactical Response Team, the Middleburg Flying Squad, and the Belfast SAPS.
The investigation led to the swift capture of the suspects, who were found with stripped vehicle parts from the stolen Hilux. Some of these components were loaded into the suspects’ light delivery vehicle (LDV), while others were located during surrounding police searches.
Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, commended the rapid response of the investigating team. “Our investigators, in collaboration with prosecutors, will ensure a strong case is presented in court. This sends a clear message that no one is above the law or can disrespect the state with impunity,” he stated.
Currently, the suspects face charges of possession of suspected stolen vehicle parts, with the possibility of additional charges pending as the investigation continues.
