Police in Limpopo have sent a strong warning to community members who are still hitchhiking unknown motor vehicles. This warning comes against a background of an incident that took place, on Tuesday, 25 July at around 10:00 in the bushes along R81 road Xikukwani Village, Giyani.
A 28-year-old male victim was allegedly hitchhiking at the traffic lights of Siyandhani along R81 going to Malamulele. A silver Datsun car with two occupants including the driver stopped. They apparently offered him a lift together with another man.
ALSO READ: Limpopo health official caught selling ARVs to foreigners
On the way, the driver then suggested to the occupants that he needed to via nearby bushes to buy firewood.
While in the bushes, he allegedly stopped the vehicle and suddenly, everyone including the other hitchhiker threatened him with a knife and firearms, demanding money.
MAN SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES OF HITCHHIKING
The three suspects robbed him of a cellphone and money. They also tried to access funds from his bank account through an App but it was insufficient. They pushed him out of the vehicle and drove off at high speed.
The victim immediately notified the Police and a manhunt to arrest the suspects was launched.
“It is more safe and reliable to make use of public transport,” said Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
“People can avoid becoming victims in the hands of these ruthless and heartless criminals by making use of Public Transport. Your precious life is more valuable so take it seriously,” concluded Lieutenant General Hadebe.
The Police opened a case of robbery with a firearm.
Anyone with information that can assist the Police to arrest these criminals should contact Detective Warrant Officer Hobyani @ 071 1637 272. Crime stop number 08600 10111 or the nearest Police Station or MysapsApp.
