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OR Tambo district police conducted several festive-season operations on 02 December 2025, resulting in significant recoveries and arrests across the district.
11 Stolen Cattle Recovered in Detyana
The OR Tambo Stock Theft Prevention Task Team, the Qumbu Stock Theft Unit and Sulenkama Vispol members acted on information at Caba Administrative Area in Detyana.
They recovered 11 cattle suspected to have been stolen from Mdeni locality. The incident happened at about 20:00 on 02 December 2025.
The suspects fled when police arrived. They abandoned the vehicle used to load the cattle.
Police impounded the vehicle. The cattle were taken to the Qumbu Municipality Stock Pound for safekeeping. Investigations continue.
Suspect Arrested After Recovery of Stolen Government Vehicle
In a separate incident, Qumbu police arrested a 25-year-old male at Matyhamini locality in Chulunca Administrative Area. The arrest took place at about 04:00 on 02 December 2025.
Police followed up on the recovery of a government Nissan Navara linked to a Sulenkama carjacking case. They found the suspect in possession of stripped vehicle parts at his home, including an engine and doors. He now faces charges related to possession of suspected stolen property.
Suspect Fatally Shot After Opening Fire on Police
Later that day, at 13:10 in Mthatha, TRT members approached a 28-year-old man near the Old Nkululekweni residential area along the R61. Police intended to search him. The man fired shots at the officers. Police retaliated and fatally wounded the suspect.
Officers also recovered a 9mm pistol with an erased serial number and live ammunition from him. The case will proceed in the Qumbu Magistrates Court.
Police Leadership Commends Officers
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, praised the officers for their commitment. He encouraged them to continue working hard to make OR Tambo a safer district during the festive season.
