TWO suspects arrested, and a stolen luxury car was recovered in Limpopo on Thursday, 21 August.
This follows a shoot-out along the N1 in Botlokwa.
A police officer was wounded during the incident.
Police spokesman Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the stolen car was set to be smuggled to Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge Border Post.
"The operation was launched after intelligence was received on Thursday, 21 August 2025, regarding two vehicles - a Mercedes-Benz C200 and an Audi A3 - stolen during a business robbery in Boksburg North on 12 August 2025. Information indicated that the suspects intended to smuggle the vehicles into Zimbabwe through the Beitbridge border post."
He said the tactical team was deployed and intercepted the vehicles near Botlokwa in the Capricorn district.
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"As police attempted to stop them, the occupants of the Audi opened fire, sparking a shoot-out in which one police officer was wounded. Despite coming under attack, the joint team displayed bravery and professionalism, continuing the operation under life-threatening conditions.
"Two suspects, a 25-year-old South African male and a 48-year-old foreign national, were arrested on the scene. The recovered Mercedes-Benz is valued at about R700 000. Other suspects managed to flee in the Audi," said Mashaba.
Cases of attempted murder and possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle have been opened at the Botlokwa Police Station.
The suspects will appear in the Sekgosese Magistrates Court on Monday, 25 August 2025.
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe praised the joint effort, saying: "This operation is a true reflection of the power of collaboration between our provincial teams, national detectives, and the private security sector. Our members displayed extraordinary courage in the face of danger, and we wish the injured officer a speedy recovery."
A manhunt has been intensified for the suspects who escaped.
Members of the public with information that can assist are urged to contact Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola on 082 749 2233, Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501, the CrimeStop at 08600 10111, or their nearest police station.
Information can also be shared via the MySAPS App.
