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Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

POLICE in Apel near Lebowakgomo outside Polokwane have launched a manhunt for a group of armed robbery suspects among them a Zimbabwean man in connection with a case of armed robbery at a guest house.

Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe identified the Zimbabwean as Bothwell Maligasi.

“It is alleged that a group of suspects attacked the employees at this overnight accommodation, shot one of them and ransacked the building,” he said.

“The suspects thereafter, uninstalled the Plasma TVs on the walls, loaded them inside their vehicle and stole several other electrical appliances before fleeing in a BMW sedan, white in colour. 

“Police were summoned and reacted swiftly. The suspects’ car was immediately followed by the police and a car chase ensued until the culprits lost control of the vehicle and knocked a tree alongside the road. 

“The suspects managed to flee on foot.”

He said police officers searched the car and a number of items were recovered.

Col Ngoepe said the motor vehicle that was used by the suspects belongs to a Zimbabwean national team football player who was co-operating with police investigating the matter.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that he was not in the car during this incident but he is co-operating with the police to track down the suspects one of whom has already been identified,” he said.

“The suspects involved in this matter including the driver of this motor vehicle are still on the run. 

“The police are calling upon Bothwell Maligasi who is a Zimbabwean National to come to Apel Police Station or the nearest police station to assist in the investigations into this matter.” 

 Col Ngoepe said anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects should contact Colonel Moyahabo Morudi on +2782 565 7646 or the crime stop number +27860010111 or the Crime Line SMS 32211 or the nearest Police Station.