SANDF Soldiers Apprehend Alleged Car Thieves Near Tshwane Military Base

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the arrest of five suspected car thieves near the Tek Base military facility in Tshwane. The dramatic takedown, captured in viral social media videos, shows armed soldiers – including one still in pajamas – confronting the suspects and ordering them to lie on the ground.

Organized Crime Syndicate Targeted

According to the SANDF, the suspects are believed to be part of a criminal network specializing in vehicle thefts near military installations. “The suspects were caught using the vicinity of Tek Base as a sanctuary for their illegal operations,” the defense force stated.

Operation Details

The military acted on Sunday following intelligence reports from military police. Soldiers discovered a suspected stolen white Toyota Fortuner near the Engineering Formation. Their swift response, coordinated with South African Police Service (SAPS) officers, led to the arrest of five male suspects from Mamelodi.

Investigators also recovered a second vehicle – a white Kia with falsified license discs – strengthening suspicions of an organized vehicle theft ring. Both vehicles have been impounded for forensic examination.

Zero Tolerance Policy

The SANDF issued a stern warning about criminal activity near military facilities: “Any civilian found within or near military bases engaging in criminal conduct will face the full might of the law. Our bases are sanctuaries of national security, not safe harbors for criminals.”

The defense force emphasized its commitment to protecting both state and civilian property, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to unlawful activities in and around military zones.

Source: TimesLIVE