Thieves Abandon Stolen Nissan Navara After Crossing the Limpopo River

Polokwane – An exhilarating high-speed pursuit, exchanges of gunfire, and a bold escape attempt across the Limpopo River into Zimbabwe led car thieves to forsake a stolen bakkie.

In a comprehensive report concerning the abandoned Nissan Navara found along the banks of Zimbabwe, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba revealed on Sunday, 16 August 2026, that law enforcement successfully disrupted “a daring attempt by armed culprits to evade capture by fleeing into Zimbabwe with the stolen Nissan Navara.”

Colonel Ledwaba explained: “Members of the Beitbridge Task Team were on patrol along the N1 near the border in the Musina policing area when they spotted a white Nissan Navara racing down Malala Drift Road toward the border.”

“The officers swiftly initiated a chase as the vehicle approached the Limpopo River.”

“With assistance from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the police continued their pursuit as the suspects attempted to cross the river into Zimbabwe.”

Colonel Ledwaba also indicated that the suspects opened fire on the police, who returned fire in self-defense.

“An increased contingent of uniformed officers from the Beitbridge South African Police Service (SAPS) was summoned for further assistance,” the spokesperson reported.

“Ultimately, the suspects abandoned the vehicle on the banks of the Zimbabwean river and fled into Zimbabwe.”

“Despite the challenging circumstances, police officers waded into the river and successfully retrieved the abandoned Nissan Navara.”

Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the officers during this incident.

Initial investigations suggest that the Nissan Navara was reported stolen in Brooklyn, Gauteng, in early August 2026.

The vehicle has been secured for further investigation.

The suspects remain at large, leading to an ongoing manhunt to capture those responsible.

Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Limpopo, praised the officers for their courage, vigilance, and commitment to securing the nation’s borders.

“Our borders must not become pathways for criminals,” Colonel Lieutenant General Scheepers underscored.

“This incident highlights our members’ readiness and attentiveness in combating cross-border criminal activities.”

“We will continue to collaborate with the SANDF and other law enforcement agencies to obstruct the movements of criminals engaged in vehicle theft and other unlawful activities.”

The investigation and manhunt are ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

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