COPS crack down on alleged robbery syndicate.
Residents and business owners can finally breathe a little easier after cos swooped on an alleged robbery syndicate accused of terrorising businesses across Limpopo.
The major takedown happened in the early hours of Friday morning, 22 May 2026, during a high-powered intelligence-driven operation known as Operation VIMPER.
According to Limpopo police, five suspects aged between 31 and 44 were arrested in villages around the Bolobedu and Tzaneen policing areas.
The suspects are believed to be behind a string of violent business robberies targeting filling stations, liquor outlets and other commercial premises in the Capricorn, Mopani and Vhembe districts.
Intelligence-led operation
Provincial police commissioner Thembi Hadebe praised the officers involved for their bravery and teamwork during the operation.
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Police said the operation was launched after Crime Intelligence received information about a gang allegedly involved in organised robberies across the province.
The multidisciplinary team included members of the Provincial Tracking Team, Provincial Investigation Unit and Provincial Organised Crime Unit, with support from Tshimollo Security and Investigations.
Firearms and vehicles seized
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly used angle grinders to break open safes and ATM machines before stealing cash, cigarettes, liquor and groceries.
The gang is also linked to a dramatic shoot-out in the Sebayeng policing area, where suspects allegedly exchanged fire with police and private security officers responding to an alarm at a business centre before fleeing the scene.
During Friday's operation, police recovered four illegal firearms, including two revolvers and two pistols with serial numbers allegedly removed.
Officers also seized 35 rounds of live ammunition. Police further confiscated 20 new and used angle grinder cutting wheels believed to have been used during the crimes.
Three vehicles allegedly linked to the gang were also seized, including two Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedans and a Mazda 6.
Court appearance awaits
The suspects are expected to appear in the Bolobedu and Tzaneen Magistrates Courts on Monday, 25 May, facing charges related to the possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition.
Police investigations are continuing as authorities work to connect the suspects to several robbery cases across the province.
