SAPS Cripples Violent Syndicate
SEVEN SUSPECTS DOWN

Northam/ Rustenburg – A high-risk, intelligence-driven operation between SAPS Limpopo and SAPS North West has delivered a major blow to organised crime in the region, with seven notorious suspects arrested and an arsenal of heavy weaponry seized.

The takedown followed a fatal business robbery on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, during which a victim tragically lost their life. Rapid intelligence work linked the crime scene to a white Toyota Fortuner used by a syndicate long feared across Northam, Mogwase, and surrounding communities.

Police traced and intercepted the vehicle near a local school in Northam, arresting the driver on the spot. Further questioning led investigators to Rethabile Village, where additional suspects were cornered and detained.

The multidisciplinary team involved Northam CIS, Rustenburg TRT, Mogwase CIS, Mogwase Vispol, and Northam Rural Safety — working swiftly and in coordinated precision.

What followed was a significant haul of illegal weapons and stolen goods. The police recovered: 

• 1 x AK-47 rifle
• 2 x 9mm pistols (serial numbers removed, one belonging to SAPS)
• 36 magazines (AK-47 and 9mm)
• 70 x AK-47 rounds (7.62x39mm)
• 110 x 9mm cartridges
• Balaclavas, gloves, clothing used in robberies
• Stolen electronics and cigarettes
• Multiple cellphones and Toyota vehicle keys
• A Toyota Fortuner used in the robberies
• A stolen Toyota Tazz, abandoned at Smashblock sports ground

Provincial commissioner lieutenant general Thembi Hadebe praised the operation. All seven suspects — six men and one woman, aged 31 to 49 — will appear in court soon.