In a significant operation, the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Secunda, in collaboration with Standerton K9, Secunda Public Order Policing, and Secunda K9, successfully intercepted a vehicle theft syndicate, seizing vehicles valued at approximately R1 million in Sakhile (Standerton) on Thursday, 04 September 2025.
The operation resulted in the recovery of two vehicles reported stolen in Gauteng and Lipompo Provinces in 2020 – a Nissan NP 200 and a Toyota Hilux. Additionally, four vehicles—namely a Toyota Quantum, Toyota Hilux, Toyota Avanza, and Toyota Tazz—had been tampered with, indicating involvement in organised theft or chop-shop activities.
Further investigation uncovered an unlicensed firearm and ammunition in possession of a 33-year-old mechanic, who was also found at the scene.
The suspect is scheduled to appear in Standerton Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 05 September 2025.
Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, spokesperson for the DPCI, stated: “This operation underscores our relentless efforts to dismantle organised vehicle theft syndicates. The recovery of stolen vehicles and illegal firearms is a significant step towards curbing crime in our communities. Our investigators will now probe whether the premises was used as a chop shop or linked to other syndicates operating within the province. We remain committed to bringing these criminal networks to justice and ensuring the safety of our citizens.”
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