Two men were apprehended after being identified in a viral clip showing a man being robbed in Limpopo.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, the men in question were arrested for a robbery which took place on Monday 27 March 2023 at about 10am at the corner of Paul Kruger and Rissik streets in Polokwane.
Watch the video of the robbery:
pic.twitter.com/ucR29TAKhB— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) March 29, 2023
Six suspects captured
The suspects, aged 34 and 38, are expected to appear at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court.
“The suspects were identified after a video clip showing a man being robbed went viral on social media while dropping his package at a parcel counter at Watloo Supermarket and Butchery in Polokwane CBD.
“It is alleged that six suspects were captured on video while robbing a Zimbabwean national of his belongings and later fled the scene on foot,” said Mojapelo.
Police said they launched an operation immediately after receiving information about the robbery. This led to the arrest of the two suspects in Mmotong village outside Seshego on Tuesday and Wednesday 29 March 2023.
READ MORE: PICS, VIDEO: Two alleged business robbers shot, 11 arrested in failed robbery
Foreign nationals targeted
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are a syndicate calling themselves ‘Makgamasa’ who operate around Polokwane targeting foreign nationals. They allegedly disguise themselves as police officials and request legal documentations and passports from the potential targets or victims. Moreover, some of the victims are taken to remote places and robbed of valuable goods such as cellphones and money.”
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner Thembi Hadebe has urged community members with information about this group to come forward and assist the police in their investigation.
A manhunt for the remaining four suspects is also underway.
Assistance
Police have appealed to any members of the public who may have information or can provide assistance in identifying the suspects in the footage circulating to come forth.
“Anyone who can identify the people shown on the video that has been circulating on social media platforms, is urged to contact the Polokwane Branch Commander Colonel Lenkie Mathebula on 0826283172 or crime stop number 0860010111 or nearest police station or MySAPSApp, as it is believed they can assist in the investigations.”
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