Vehicle Theft Syndicate at Tek Base
By Thabo Mosia
Soldiers from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) apprehended five alleged thieves at the Tek Base in Thaba Tshwane on 4 May 2025. The suspects, believed to be part of a criminal syndicate targeting civilian vehicles near military establishments, were caught with a stolen Toyota Fortuner and a Kia bearing fake licence discs. The SANDF has hailed the operation as a testament to its commitment to security and law enforcement, sending a stern warning to criminals eyeing military zones.
The Incident: A Coordinated Takedown
The arrests took place on Sunday, 4 May 2025, when alert soldiers at Tek Base acted on intelligence and reports from military police personnel. They spotted a white Toyota Fortuner, suspected to be stolen, near the engineering formation of the base. Through quick coordination with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Military Police, the soldiers cornered and arrested five male suspects.
SANDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala praised the soldiers for their professionalism and bravery. “The prompt intervention by the members of Tek Base, along with the coordination between the South African Police Service and the Military Police, led to the arrest of five males,” he said.
The operation uncovered a second vehicle—a white Kia with fake licence discs—in the suspects’ possession, fueling suspicions of an organized illegal vehicle syndicate.
The suspects, identified as residents of Mamelodi, were handed over to SAPS Lyttelton for detention. Both vehicles have been impounded and are undergoing forensic investigation to uncover further details about the syndicate’s operations.
A Strong Message from the SANDF
Rear Admiral Tshabalala emphasized that military bases are not havens for criminal activity. “The SANDF reiterates that military bases are secure and protected zones. Any civilian found within or near military facilities engaging in criminal conduct will face the full might of the law. There is a zero tolerance for unlawful activity within our military bases,” he stated.
He added, “The SANDF remains committed to upholding law, order, and the protection of both state and civilian property. Our bases are sanctuaries of national security, not safe harbors for criminals.” The soldiers involved in the operation were commended for managing the crime scene with discipline and duty, embodying the values of the SANDF.
Thaba Tshwane: A Strategic Military Hub
Thaba Tshwane, located south of Pretoria, is one of South Africa’s most significant military bases. It hosts a range of SANDF units, including engineering formations like Tek Base, as well as critical facilities such as 1 Military Hospital and the SA Army College. Its strategic importance makes it a prime target for security measures, but its proximity to civilian areas also exposes it to risks like vehicle theft and other crimes.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining security in and around military establishments. The suspects’ attempt to use the base’s vicinity as a hideout for their illegal activities underscores the audacity of criminal syndicates operating in South Africa.
The Bigger Picture: Vehicle Theft in South Africa
Vehicle theft remains a pressing issue across the country, with syndicates often targeting popular models like the Toyota Fortuner for resale or smuggling. The discovery of fake licence discs on the Kia suggests a level of sophistication, pointing to a possible network involved in altering and trafficking stolen vehicles. The SANDF’s intervention may have disrupted a broader criminal operation, and the forensic investigation could reveal connections to larger syndicates.
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