POLOKWANE – Police in Polokwane are on the lookout for two unknown women believed to be involved in a vehicle theft syndicate operating at accommodation venues in and around the city.
The manhunt was launched after a 54-year-old man alleged he had a business meeting at a lodge in Polokwane on 30 April when he was approached by two women an he invited them to another lodge in the city.
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According to police spokesperson, Col Moatshe Ngoepe, the man apparently woke up the following morning, 1 May, to find himself alone in the room, his car keys missing and the door locked. He called for help and was assisted by staff. When he went outside, he discovered that his vehicle, a Charcoal Ford Ranger was missing. His two female companions had also disappeared.
“The matter was reported to the police and preliminary investigations revealed that the victim might have been drugged,” Ngoepe said in a statement.
He added that this is the second incident in the city, following a similar one which occurred on 23 February, where a motor vehicle was also stolen at overnight accommodation, outside Polokwane. “On that night, a 44-year-old man booked in with a female companion, whom he allegedly met earlier around town. It is understood that the victim had a drink while inside one of the rooms. It is suspected the drink might have been spiked. He was woken up by staff at around 07:00 the following day and that’s when he realised his cellphone and a motor vehicle were stolen,” Ngoepe explained.
Police are appealing to anyone with information that can lead to the apprehension of the suspects involved in both incidents to contact Colonel Moruti Mothoa at 082 451 7184; the crime stop number 0860010111; the crime line SMS 32211 or the nearest police station.
“Residents, especially men are warned against falling prey to this type of crime and they should always put their safety first when engaging with strangers,” Ngoepe’s statement concluded.
