Four suspected stolen vehicles were recovered and two men arrested during a police operation in Qumbu on Thursday, 17 July 2025. The operation, conducted by the Mthatha Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU) under Operation Shanela II, took place in Balasi and Mvumelwano localities from 07:00 to 16:00.
A 32-year-old suspect was found in possession of a Toyota Hilux D4D linked to a Mbekweni case reported in July 2024. A second suspect, aged 39, was apprehended with another Toyota Hilux connected to a Kleinvlei case, also from July 2024.
Two additional vehicles, a Toyota Etios and a Toyota GD6, were also impounded. The Etios is linked to a Dieprivier case and the GD6 to a Khayelitsha case. Police confirmed that investigations into all four vehicles are ongoing.
Both suspects are expected to appear in the Qumbu Magistrate’s Court soon on charges of possession of suspected stolen vehicles.
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, praised the vigilance of the VCIU members, stating that their actions reaffirm the police’s commitment to combat vehicle theft and protect the rights of lawful owners.
“Vehicle theft causes deep emotional and psychological distress to victims. We remain determined to fight this crime with every resource available,” he said.
