Blitz operation focusing on motor vehicle crimes executed

SPRINGBOK – A multi-disciplinary motor vehicle crime operation was executed in Kimberley today, 26 February 2025 by members from various SAPS units including the Provincial, Kimberley, Springbok , De Aar and Upington Vehicle Crime Investigation Units (VCIU), SAPS Crime Intelligence Multi- Dimentional and Organized Crime unit, Galeshewe and Kimberley Designated Police Officials (DPO), Kimberley and Upington SAPS Vehicle Safeguarding Units(VSS).

The operation was supported by the Insurance Crime Bureau (ICB), Data Dot SA, Tracker, and several motor vehicle insurance companies. The team pounced on local scrap metal dealers and panel beating shops with the focus on stolen vehicles and vehicle parts, vehicle fraud, and cloned vehicles. One white VW Polo was confiscated at a scrap metal dealer in Galeshewe that was allegedly hi- jacked in Moroka, Soweto, during July 2023.

Police opened an enquiry as the owner of the scrap metal dealership could not provide proof of ownership and was warned to provide the details within seven days. The team also visited numerous second-hand motor vehicle dealerships in Kimberley, and managed to inspect the authenticity of approximately 214 vehicles. Manufacturer, Importer and Builder (MIB) companies for motor vehicle trailers in Kimberley were also visited to check for compliance.

The operation concluded with a roadblock on the N8 Road with Kimberley SAPS Visible Policing unit and the Traffic Department where the team stopped, searched and inspected 84 vehicles and 177 persons with five traffic fines issued.

The operation preceded the quarterly Motor Vehicle Crime Forum meeting scheduled for 27 February 2025 in Kimberley, where the stakeholders will be discussing successes, motor vehicle crime trends, and render training related to motor vehicle crimes.