A coordinated intelligence-driven operation by multiple law enforcement units in the Nkangala District has led to the arrest of three suspects allegedly involved in a series of business robberies while impersonating police officers.
According to police reports, members of the Anti-Hijacking Task Team, Middelburg K9, Middelburg Flying Squad, and the Nkangala Highway Patrol conducted a joint operation targeting identified locations in the early hours of 12 March 2026.
At approximately 01:00, the teams acted on intelligence regarding suspects believed to be behind recent business robberies. Three male suspects, aged 32, 41, and 31, were apprehended at the scene.
During the arrest, officers recovered a 9mm pistol loaded with seven rounds of ammunition, as well as a police blue light from one of the suspects. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly used a white Volkswagen Polo fitted with the blue light to commit robberies along the N12 freeway, presenting themselves as law enforcement officials to intercept victims.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects are believed to be linked to multiple robbery incidents in the area. One of the individuals has allegedly made admissions regarding his involvement in several freeway robberies, which remain under investigation.
All three suspects were positively identified through CCTV footage obtained from two separate robbery incidents in which the same vehicle was reportedly used.
A case has been opened for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, as well as possession of a police blue light. The suspects are currently being detained at Phola SAPS and are expected to appear before the Witbank Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
Police have stated that investigations are ongoing and that additional charges may be added as the inquiry progresses.